Goldenrod is a common wildflower that grows abundantly across North America While some people consider it a nuisance weed, goldenrod has a long history of medicinal and practical uses Learning how to properly identify, harvest, and utilize this versatile plant can be a great way to connect with nature and make the most of free, natural resources.
Identifying Goldenrod
North America is home to more than 30 species of goldenrod. You can find them growing in open fields, along roadsides, and in places that have been disturbed. Goldenrod flowers in late summer and early fall. The flowers are bright golden yellow and grow in tall, plume-like clusters at the top of the stems.
Some key identification features of goldenrod include
- Woody, ribbed stems that can grow 3-7 feet tall
- Alternate, lance-shaped leaves that get smaller toward the top
- Rough, hairy texture on the underside of leaves
- Bright yellow flowers clustered into plumes or panicles
Goldenrod species can be difficult to differentiate, even for experts. For craft and medicine purposes, it’s not important to know the exact species because all goldenrods have similar uses and properties. Just stay away from plants that look like them but are poisonous, like ragwort.
When to Harvest
The best time to harvest goldenrod is when the plants are in full bloom, typically August through September. Gathering the flowers right as they reach peak bloom ensures the maximum concentration of beneficial compounds.
Only harvest goldenrod growing in clean areas, away from roadsides or potential sources of contamination. Also avoid picking from plants that show signs of disease or damage.
How to Harvest
For fresh use:
- Use gardening shears or scissors to snip off entire flower plumes. Try to get as little stem as possible.
- Handle flowers gently to avoid bruising.
- Use flowers immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to a few days.
For drying:
- Cut flowers when blooms are partially open and still vibrant.
- Gently wash and pat dry flowers.
- Lay flowers face-down on a screen or baking sheet.
- Place in a warm, well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight.
- Allow 1-2 weeks for thorough drying.
- To test for dryness, flowers should crumble easily.
- Store dried flowers in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.
For tinctures/oils:
- Harvest fresh goldenrod flowers.
- Fill a jar with tightly packed flowers.
- Pour alcohol, oil, or vinegar over the plant material until completely submerged.
- Infuse for 4-6 weeks, shaking periodically.
- Strain and store the infused oil in a cool, dark area for up to a year.
Leave some of the plant behind no matter what part you use to make sure it grows back. Never harvest an entire stand of goldenrod.
Medicinal Uses
Goldenrod has a long history of medicinal use among Native American tribes. Current herbalists recommend it most for treating urinary tract, respiratory, and digestive complaints. Scientific research has also identified anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and analgesic effects from the plant.
Some of the most common medicinal uses for goldenrod include:
- Urinary tract infections – relieves symptoms and inhibits bacterial growth
- Kidney stones – helps relax ureters to aid passage of small stones
- Respiratory infections – reduces inflammation and has antimicrobial effects
- Upset stomach/indigestion – settles digestion and reduces gas
- Sore throat/mouth – has soothing, anti-inflammatory effects
Goldenrod can be utilized in several forms:
Tea: Mix 1 cup of hot water with 1-2 teaspoons of dried flowers. Steep for 10 minutes and strain. Drink up to 3 times daily.
Tincture – A concentrated liquid extract made by soaking fresh goldenrod flowers in alcohol for 4-6 weeks. Take 30-60 drops in water or juice up to 3 times per day.
Infused oil – Soak flowers in a carrier oil for 4-6 weeks, then strain. Apply topically to soothe sore muscles, arthritis pain, or skin irritation.
Salve – Add infused oil to beeswax to create a balm. Apply to skin abrasions, burns, or insect bites.
Always consult an herbalist or medical professional before using goldenrod medicinally, especially if pregnant, nursing, or taking prescription medications. Start with small doses and increase cautiously if desired effects are not seen.
Craft Uses
Beyond its medicinal value, goldenrod has some excellent applications for DIY crafts and decor. The bright yellow flowers and sturdy stems create beautiful arrangements and natural dyes. Some fun ways to use harvested goldenrod include:
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Flower arranging – Fresh or dried goldenrod adds a pop of color and texture. Pair with other fall blooms.
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Wreaths/garlands – Entwine fresh goldenrod stems and flowers intocircular wreaths or swags to decorate for autumn.
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Floral displays – Bundle dried goldenrod and display in vases or jars for long-lasting indoor decoration.
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Dyeing – Goldenrod produces a pale yellow dye. Use like any natural dye with alum mordant on wool, silk, or other natural fibers.
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Tea – Brew a large batch of goldenrod tea, then reduce it slowly to concentrate the color. Use as watercolor paint or fabric dye.
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Bath/body products – Add goldenrod-infused oil or hydrosol (distilled flower water) to soaps, lotions, bath salts, etc.
With its vibrant color and wildflower beauty, goldenrod is one of the harbingers of autumn. Learning how to properly identify and harvest it sustainably allows you to benefit from its many uses. Turn your backyard “weed” into a versatile addition to your herbal medicine cabinet and craft supplies.
Timing Is Everything
Any herb that you want to get the most out of needs to be harvested by paying close attention to the stages it goes through. Goldenrod is no different.
Goldenrod Leaves
When I go goldenrod foraging, I like to get the leaves just before the flowers open, or when some flowers are open and others are about to open. Goldenrod is prone to powdery mildew and rust, so choose your leaves with care to avoid infected leaves. In fact, it is best to keep an eye on the overall condition of the plant when foraging goldenrod, harvesting from healthy, robust plants.
Goldenrod Flowers
If you dry goldenrod flowers when they are fully bloomed, they often turn into fluff, so I like to use them right away.
Goldenrod Seeds
Some people will wait until the goldenrod goes to seed before foraging and drying the seeds.
Goldenrod Roots
Harvest the roots in the fall after the first heavy frost. Wash them well, cut them up into small, thin pieces, and dehydrate them thoroughly.
Time of Day for Foraging Goldenrod
I typically forage after the dew has dried and before the sun is at its hottest. That is around 11:00 AM this time of year where I live.
I try to get my harvest processed immediately. If drying, I put them in the food dehydrator. Air drying in the fall can be tricky due to dampness and lack of warm temperatures. If the temperature is high, I like to place my foraged material in brown paper bags (mark them so you don’t forget what they are) and put them in the backseat of my car. Then, I’ll park in the sun with the windows open so air can circulate. This is ideal in the summer, but if you want to do this during the fall months, you have to be careful to pick the best day for it.
3 Tips For Foraging Goldenrod
First, make sure you have one of the Solidago plants! S. canadensis can be found growing in dry or semi-wet areas. The plants can get up to seven feet tall, but are usually around 3 to 4 feet in our area. Flowers appear in mid to late summer and can continue through September—sometimes even October. The leaves are 2 to 5 inches long, are lanceolate, and have fine hairs on them. Some of the leaves smell like anise, but many do not. The brightly colored flowers are yellow and mostly grow on one side of a long branch that droops over.
Most people agree that S. canadensis and/or S. odora are the tastiest and most beneficial for health, but everyone has their favorite. I encourage you to find the variety that works best for you and your purposes, preferably one that is easily obtainable in your location. Many herbalists feel that most goldenrods are easily interchangeable.
Correctly identifying a plant is critical to foraging success. Many plants have poisonous look-alikes, and the Solidagos are no exception. The Senecio species in the daisy family can look similar to goldenrod to a new herbalist or forager. If you are unsure whether or not you have found the correct plant, leave it! It is best to go foraging with an experienced forager/herbalist before attempting to do it yourself in order to gain experience. It’s also a good idea to read your plant identification books very carefully before starting out and to cross-check between multiple books to positively identify a plant. Generally, once you know how to identify a specific plant, that knowledges becomes solidly ingrained in your head.
Goldenrod – How to Harvest with Michael Pilarski “Skeeter”
FAQ
How and when to harvest golden rod?
Harvest goldenrod flowers on a dry day or when rain and dew aren’t on the plant. A dry sunny mid-morning is a perfect time, but work with the weather you have. You should bring scissors or plant snips because it’s hard to break goldenrod stems with your hands alone.
How do you prepare goldenrod for medicinal use?
DirectionsCut the top 6-12″ of the goldenrod, a mix of open (and soon to open) flowers and leaves are great. Pass on plants that are fully closed or have wilted flowers. Place goldenrod in a jar or tea pot, pour over boiling water and cover. Let steep for 10 minutes. Strain and drink as is, or sweeten with honey.
What part of the goldenrod plant is edible?
Goldenrod flowers and leaves can be dried or used fresh to make tea. The flowers are also edible and can be used as garnishes.
How do you harvest and use goldenrod?
To harvest goldenrod, you want to catch it as the flowers have just started blooming. Select plants that look healthy and free of mildew and disease. Bring along a pair of scissors and snip off the plume of flowers. It’s okay to get some leaves.