Euthamia graminifolia

Grass-leaved Goldenrod is a quick-growing, dense clumping perennial in the Aster family. Slender, grass-like leaves grow alternately up the length of the stems, giving this plant its common name. From July to October, rounded flat-topped clusters of golden yellow flowers make their appearance, giving way to cypselae in colder months. Nectar from the flowers support many native bees while Eastern Goldfinches and Swamp Sparrows have been spotted eating the seeds. Although this plant isn’t a true goldenrod, it does attract beneficial insects such as Goldenrod Soldier Beetles, whose larvae munch on aphids. Although Grass-leaved Goldenrod thrives in wet landscapes, once established it can withstand the occasional drought.