Hairy Goldenrod: A Lesser-Known Native Beauty
Meet Solidago hispida var. tonsa, commonly known as hairy goldenrod—a fascinating native perennial that’s probably flying under your gardening radar. This particular variety of hairy goldenrod is one of those hidden gems of the native plant world, though it might be more hidden than gem-like for most gardeners!
Where Does Hairy Goldenrod Call Home?
This perennial forb is native to both Canada and the lower 48 United States, but don’t expect to find it everywhere. Hairy goldenrod has a rather exclusive address list, naturally occurring in just a few locations: New Brunswick, Quebec, Michigan, and Newfoundland. It’s like the plant equivalent of a boutique store—limited locations, but authentically local!
What Exactly Is This Plant?
Solidago hispida var. tonsa is classified as a forb, which is botanist-speak for a herbaceous flowering plant that doesn’t develop woody stems. Think of it as the opposite of a shrub or tree—it stays soft and green above ground while developing a perennial root system that comes back year after year.
You might occasionally see this plant listed under its synonym, Solidago bicolor L. var. tonsa, but don’t let the name confusion throw you off—it’s the same plant, just with different paperwork!
The Reality Check for Gardeners
Here’s where we need to have an honest conversation. While hairy goldenrod is undoubtedly a legitimate native plant with ecological value, finding detailed growing information—or even finding the plant itself—can be quite challenging. This variety appears to have a limited natural range and isn’t commonly available in the nursery trade.
If you’re drawn to the idea of growing native goldenrods (and who isn’t—they’re pollinator magnets!), you might want to consider some of the more readily available Solidago species that offer similar benefits with much more documented growing success.
Why Consider Native Goldenrods?
Even though specific information about this variety is limited, goldenrods in general are:
- Excellent pollinator plants, supporting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects
- Low-maintenance once established
- Beautiful additions to naturalistic garden designs
- Important food sources for wildlife
- Drought-tolerant options for sustainable landscaping
What’s a Native Plant Enthusiast to Do?
If you’re specifically interested in this variety because of its native status in your region (particularly if you’re gardening in New Brunswick, Quebec, Michigan, or Newfoundland), your best bet is to:
- Contact local native plant societies or botanical gardens
- Check with regional native plant nurseries
- Connect with local naturalist groups who might know of wild populations
- Consider growing other native Solidago species that are more readily available
The Bottom Line
Hairy goldenrod (Solidago hispida var. tonsa) represents the wonderful diversity of our native flora, even if it’s not the easiest plant to bring home to your garden. Sometimes the most valuable plants are the ones that remind us there’s still so much to discover and protect in our natural world.
If you’re passionate about supporting native plants and pollinators, don’t let the scarcity of this particular variety discourage you. There are plenty of other native goldenrods waiting to bring late-season color and ecological benefits to your landscape—and they come with much more detailed growing guides!
