August 15 Golden Prairie

There are several goldenrods making their appearance this mid-August and I believe this one is canadian goldenrod (Solidago canadensis), our most common species. With short green leaves whorled around a green stalk, it is extremely variable in height and arrangement and number of flowers. Something to look for on these is a round bulge in the stem about the size of a walnut, which is an insect gall. A fly, wasp, or moth will deposit an egg in the stem which will co-opt the plant's growing mechanism to grow a secure shell around the egg. While not detrimental to the plant, its clearly and invasion or privacy, but a smart one. These galls can be seen throughout winter on standing plants. For now, the new flowers on canadian goldenrod are attracting big orange beetles and tiny black beetles and bumblebees alike. They will be the stars of the prairie show for the next month.