SOLIDAGO

Genus of about 100 species of woody-based perennials occurring on roadsides, prairies and riverbanks. Most are found in North America, a few in South America and Eurasia.

An invasive subject, though the named hybrids are less so, more colourful with larger flower heads.

Golden-rod S. virgaurea is a UK native of dry pasture, heaths, mountain slopes and roadsides. Common in Scotland and, except for the south east, elsewhere.

Once used for the treatment of internal and external wounds.

The more robust Canadian golden-rod, S. canadensis is found on waste ground as a garden escape.