Goldenrod Facts and Folklore

Our “Herb of the Week”, Goldenrod, has many healing properties as the latin name suggests. Solidago comes from the latin word “Solidus” which means whole and many herbalists around the world use it to treat everything from UTIs to inflammation of the skin.

Fun Facts About Goldenrod

• There are 25 species of goldenrod in Indiana including the most uncommon variety; “Short’s Goldenrod(Solidago shortii)
• Solidago bicolor has flowers that are white in color
• Goldenrod is the state flower of Nebraska, Alabama and Kentucky
• Goldenrod can be used to make rubber
• Goldenrod is often associated with allergies though the actual culprit is ragweed which blooms at the same time

Goldenrod Folklore

Here are some interesting things I found in the Farmer’s Almanac:

• People once used goldenrod to find water, they believed that wherever it grew, a hidden spring was nearby
• In the US, farmer’s wisdom says that when you see the first goldenrod blooms, you can expect frost in six weeks
• Goldenrod flowers are a symbol of wealth and good fortune. Some say if goldenrod starts growing near your home, your family will have an unexpected run of good luck
• Pioneers used goldenrod salve to ease the pain of bee stings

 

Photo credit: The Farmer’s Almanac

Sources: The Farmer’s Almanac, The Flower Expert