In a Patch of Goldenrods

To many of us, goldenrods are seen only as the growth of tall yellow-flowering plants that appear along roadsides and in the fields of late summer. We seldom stop to take a close look or try to discern the different species. But goldenrods are a widespread and diverse group of native perennial composites. About 100 species grow in a variety of habitats across North America. In my region, northeastern Minnesota, I regularly see about a dozen kinds in various habitats. I have become fascinated by these plants and their numerous and amazingly diverse visitorsinsects, spiders, slugs, treefrogs, mites and more. In this book we sort out all the visitors that can be seen on the goldenrod flowers and stems of late summer. We also help you identify the dozen species that inhabit the North Woods.