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 There are 5 species of
goldenrod that grow in the prairies of the Loess Hills.
Goldenrod is also found in dry, open woods, along
roadsides, and in prairies throughout the state. Some
species grow best in the moist soils of tallgrass prairie
(Canada goldenrod) and others grow best in the drier
soils of mid-grass prairie (gray goldenrod). All of them
make clusters of small yellow flowers in the fall that
result in a sea of yellow. Goldenrod grows up to 8 feet
tall and in large colonies.The scientific name for
goldenrod, Solidago, is thought to have come from
the Latin word Solidare, meaning to strengthen or
unite. This refers to the healing qualities attributed to
it. The plant was used by pioneers and Indians for burns,
intestinal disorders, and lung problems. Meskwaki tribes
boiled it with fresh animal bones and washed newborns
with it, believing it insured their ability to talk and
laugh.
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