Planting and Preserving Showy Goldenrod, a Rare PA Native

Showy goldenrod (Solidago speciosa) is native to Pennsylvania but remains quite rare, with approximately 60% of the state’s population found on one of our preserves and the surrounding area.

After a population decline in the mid-2000s, we realized that action was needed to help preserve this species of goldenrod in Pennsylvania. That’s when we partnered with Mt. Cuba Center to propagate and grow healthy new plants for reintroduction to the preserve.

Ten years later, the population is rebounding, and the plants are thriving.

Caring for nature is what we do. Having fantastic partners by our side makes the impact that much greater.

NOTE: The nature preserve where this species is located is purposefully omitted in an effort to protect and preserve the rebounding population of this rare plant.

🤝 ✨ 🪴

Interviewee 1: Tom Kershner, Regional Manager of Land Stewardship
Interviewee 2: Andrew Haraschak, Assistant Preserve Manager
Featuring: Brooke Szmodis, Stewardship Assistant
Production: Rachel Rhodes, Natural Lands' Social Media Specialist
Image of bee in thumbnail: Samantha Nestory, Stoneleigh Engagement Manager

And special thanks again to our partners at Mt. Cuba Center.

🌲🌿🦉 About Natural Lands 🦉🌿🌲

Natural Lands is a non-profit organization that saves open space, cares for nature, and connects people to the outdoors in eastern Pennsylvania and southern New Jersey. We’ve been at it since the early 1950s and, today, nearly five million people live within five miles of lands under our permanent protection.

Learn more, volunteer, donate, or attend an event today at natlands.org 💚