Zigzag Goldenrod is a shade-tolerant goldenrod of eastern North American forests, distinguished by its distinctive zigzag stem that angles sharply at each leaf node. Unlike most goldenrods, it thrives in shaded woodland understories rather than open sun. Growing 1–3 feet tall, it produces short clusters of yellow flowers in the leaf axils along the stem. It is an important late-season food source in woodland settings where few other wildflowers bloom in fall.
Habitat
Found in moist, shaded deciduous forests, ravines, and woodland edges across eastern North America.
Diet
Provides late-season nectar for native bees in woodland settings; seeds eaten by finches.
How common
Common
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