Solidago auriculata Shuttlew. ex S.F. Blake

Eared Goldenrod; Clasping Leaf Goldenrod

Herb

Perennial

Vascular

Clasping Leaf Goldenrod is a native herbaceous perennial in the Sunflower family (Asteraceae). It can be found throughout Alabama. Clasping Leaf Goldenrod grows in hardwood forests, on steep slopes, and in ravines, often near streams. It is a perennial from a short rhizome. Leaves are basal and cauline. The basal leaves are petiolate with winged petioles, ovate in outline, with serrate margins. The basal leaves form a rosette and may not be present at flowering. Stem leaves are alternate, petiolate with winged petioles, ovate in outline, serrate, with auriculate-clasping bases. The upper most stem leaves are sessile with cordate clasping bases and are much reduced in size. The leaves are finely pubescent, especially on the nerves on the lower leaf surface. Stems are 1-3 feet in height, unbranched below the inflorescence, and pubescent. Flowers are produced in heads. The heads are arranged in secund, arching panicles. Each head has 1-3 yellow ray flowers and 4-8 yellow disc flowers. The fruit is an achene. Clasping Leaf Goldenrod is sometimes available from native plant nurseries. It prefers a moist loamy soil and partial sun. Clasping Leaf Goldenrod can be used as a ground cover or naturalized along a woodland path.--A. Diamond

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Native

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