Field of dried Goldenrod

One insect that depends on goldenrod
is the Gull Fly. The Gull fly burrows into the stem of the plant to lay eggs. When the eggs hatch the larve feed off the goldenrod stem. The larvae's saliva has a chemical in it that causes the plant stem to grow abnormally, producing an artistic gumball size bulge called a Gull or Gull Ball. The more fortunate larvae live to burrow their way out to began the life cycle over again. The less fortunate are eaten by birds and predator insects who make holes in the Gall Ball to get at their feast. Goldenrod grows quickly and abundantly, although not all stems have Gall Balls on them. As the end of fall draws near the plant begins to dry and
the natural drying process starts and continues over the winter months. Spring harvesting of the stem does not disturb the root or the insect population which has evacuated or been eaten by harvest time. Depending on the time of harvest the wood-like stems vary in color from rich browns to silvery grays, lending their beauty to a variety of artistic and ornamental uses.

     Goldenrod is a common wild flower found in
North America. It grows in open meadows and fields. It has rich golden flowers that bloom  from late summer to fall. The plant can grow as tall as
six feet. It is often confused with the high pollen, allergy producing weed named Ragweed. Because it is mistakenly attributed with causing severe alleries the Goldenrod plant's valuable contributions are often  overlooked or unknown. Goldenrod has varying medicinal uses for humans. In nature it provides an important  habitat by supplying food and shelter for many  types of insects that depend on the plant for  its nectar, pollen and folliage. In turn some  bird and wasp species feed upon the insects that frequent the plant.

 
         Goldenrod in bloom

        Stages of the Goldenrod flower: bloom thru drying.