Early goldenrod, shown here in the writer’s backyard. Photo by Jennifer Devine,

MI Backyard

Note: Safely foraging wild plants for home use takes practice. Always go with an experienced forager to learn how to identify plants in the field.

By Jennifer Devine

The first of its kind to bloom, early goldenrod (Solidago juncea) is a single stalk composed of a few stems of yellow, cascading butterfly attractant. These waterfalls can hold over 400-plus golden flower heads. The leaves are large at the bottom and get smaller as they reach the blooming tip.

This showy fall of bold gold is an herbaceous perennial that spreads underground from rhizomes. Part of the sunflower family, early goldenrod blooms from late June through August. You can find lovely specimens in most Michigan counties. While we’re at it, let’s bust a popular myth about this beauty: goldenrod does not cause hay fever.

There is a solitary plant in my yard, right next to a tree. However, if you drive east on M-55, from Manistee toward Cadillac, you will see splotches of this golden beauty interspersed with pink, white and purple wildflowers. 

How do you harvest its yellow flowers? Walk right up and cut the stem like you would for a bouquet. Just remember to leave some for the next person.

How do you use it? Strip the flowers and sprinkle them into your honey or on top of a fresh summer/fall salad. Take the leaves and cook them like spinach or add them to your soups and casseroles. To make a soothing herbal tea, place a mix of 1 tablespoon of fresh or dried flowers and leaves into 1 cup of boiling water for about 15 minutes.

Can it be medicinal? Some drink goldenrod tea, said to help prevent urinary tract infections and kidney stones. It is also said to calm inflammation, skin irritations and eczema. There is no scientific evidence for or against these purported benefits, but there is anecdotal evidence.

Goldenrod is a mostly tolerated “weed” full of antioxidants, therefore, I can safely say, please use this responsibly. Allergic reactions can happen, so start with small doses of tea at first. 

To learn more and view additional photographs, go to ontariowildflowers.com.

Get out and enjoy MI backyard.