Jon's daughter, Sheri took this photo when we were hiking up Blood Mountain last weekend.

 

It is Goldenrod, Solidago spp.  There are more than 100 species growing in North America, and over 24 species found in our eastern mountains.  It's hard to pinpoint the species, because they tend to cross-pollinate and hybridize.

 

Some may be regarded as weeds, but I love seeing their sunny brightness on our hillsides.

 

Goldenrod is often blamed for causing hay fever.  Not true!!  Hay fever is actually caused by ragweeds and other wind-pollinated plants.  They are blooming right now too.  Ragweed is also in the picture, top right, spiky flower buds.

 

Goldenrod is blooming all over right now, adding beauty everywhere.

 

HAPPY GARDENING!!