White goldenrod (Solidago bicolor)

On the left side of the trail, we spotted a long plant that looked like common goldenrod, but its flowers were shaped differently and were white rather than yellow. White goldenrod has an elongated spike of short-stalked flower heads with white and yellowish rays. The leaves are alternate and can have teeth, but are majority simple in appearance. The stem on this goldenrod species is hairy.

White goldenrod can be found in disturbed habitats, meadows, fields, and woodlands. This plant supports various pollinators such as native honey bees and butterflies.

Due to their importance to pollinators and unique color, we decided to add this to our tour.