The Goldenrod is the State Flower of Kentucky. Goldenrod was adopted as the State Flower of Kentucky March 16, 1926. Goldenrods are easily recognized by their golden flower clusters (inflorescence) with hundreds of small capitula, but some are spike-like and other have auxiliary racemes.

Goldenrod the State Flower of Kentucky

Goldenrod propagation is by wind-disseminated seed or by underground rhizomes. Goldenrod forms patches that are actually vegetative clones of a single plant.

Goldenrods bloom in late summer and early fall and some species produce abundant nectar when moisture is plentiful before bloom, and the bloom period is relatively warm and sunny. Honey from goldenrods often is dark and strong due to admixtures of other nectars. However when there is a strong honey flow, a light (often water white), spicy-tasting honey is produced. While the bees are ripening the honey there is a rank odor and taste, but finished honey is much milder.

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