The golden flower spikes are similar to Canadian Goldenrod (Solidago canadensis). In Early Goldenrod the upper surface of the leaves and the stem are practically hairless. A tall rhizomatous plant growing to 2.5 metres.

Leaves serrate, at least near apex; leaves glabrous or hairy only on lower veins; stems more or less glabrous below flower head

Either obtain confirmation from a County Recorder before submitting a record, or submit detailed images showing key features.  We recommend that you take and retain a specimen; the County Recorder may wish to see this for confirmation. 

It often forms dense monocultures on wasteland, roadside and railway verges.

In flower during July, August, September and October.

Perennial.

Fairly widespread in Britain.

Infrequent or under recorded in Leicestershire and Rutland. In the 1979 Flora survey of Leicestershire it was found in 3 of the 617 tetrads.