Wildflower - Goldenrod

The Goldenrod (Solidago canadensis) is starting to bloom. This plant is a member of the Aster family (Asteraceae) and considered a weed by most farmers but it's a source of nectar for honeybees, butterfies and other insects.



The flower heads are made up of many small flowers.



Many goldenrod stalks will have a large bump, known as a gall, which is caused by the Goldenrod Gall Fly. The Gall Fly will lay its eggs in the stalk and the insect larva receives protection from most predators by living within the gall and it uses the inside of the gall for food.