Alternate name: Anise-scented Goldenrod

Family: Asteraceae, Aster view all from this family

Description A smooth, tall, anise-scented plant bearing crowded, cylindrical clusters of yellow flower heads along one side of slightly arching branches.
Flowers: Head about 1/8" (4 mm) long.
Leaves: 1-4" (2.5-10 cm) long, smooth, narrow, stalkless, with small, translucent dots.
Height: 2-3' (60-90 cm).

Flower July-September.

Habitat Dry fields and open woods.

Range Nova Scotia; New Hampshire and Vermont south to Florida, west to Texas, and north to Missouri, Kentucky, and Ohio.

Discussion The crushed leaves of Sweet Goldenrod give off an anise scent that readily identifies this widespread species. A tea can be brewed from its leaves and dried flowers.