​Velvety Goldenrod, Three-nerve Goldenrod,Solidago velutina,Sunflower Family (Asteraceae)

Photo Credit: John George

Found in moist areas, hillsides, meadows, openings
Seen blooming in late July near the Rio Chama, Abiquiu

​Goldenrods, the Solidago genus, are differentiated by their tiny yellow flowers growing in clusters, usually on one side of the stem, or in a pyramid, and their leaves. Velvety Goldenrod grows 6 to 32 inches high in colonies from a basal rosette of leaves that are sometimes still present at flowering time. The leaves get progressively smaller higher up on the stem. Each leaf has three prominent veins running from the base to near the tip. Flowers grow on one side of the branch and have 6 to 12 petals. Flower heads can be pyramid-shaped with many arching branches or have only one branch. The name Solidago means "to make whole" and its healing properties are used to treat problems with the kidneys, urinary tract, skin, allergies, and the cardiovascular system. Source. Traditionally, Native Americans used it to treat burns, sores and wounds, for toothaches, and as a hair wash to prevent hair loss. Source. Goldenrod is an excellent source for a dark yellow dye.