September is colored with the golds of goldenrod. Indiana boasts around 30 different species, including Stiff Goldenrod (Solidago rigida). Stiff Goldenrod has erect stems with little branching. It has distinctive thick and leathery leaves. In Marion County, flower buds appeared mid-August and began opening in September. Full flowering occurs around now, mid-September.
Stiff Goldenrod has edible properties. The flowers can be put in salads or used as garnishes. The taste is described as herbaceous and similar to celery, but milder. Additionally, the flowers can be brewed as a tea. Humans are not the only ones who enjoy ingesting this bright yellow beauty...butterflies use this plant as a source for nectar! It grows wild throughout North America, and it is not invasive.
Similar to other wild plants of North America, Stiff Goldenrod was used in early medicine. Specifically, it was prescribed to treat individuals with a sore throat or inflammation of the mouth. Tests suggest it can lower blood pressure, inflammation, and muscle spasms.
Go on the hunt for Stiff Goldenrod and make observations today!
References
Mount Sinai