Insects on Goldenrod

The yellow glow of goldenrod is one of the most visible features of meadows in late summer. Since learning that goldenrod does not cause allergies, I have come to appreciate this late summer flower. (Most late summer weed allergies are caused by ragweed rather than goldenrod.) In addition to their cheerful color, they provide food for insects, both as larval host plants and as nectar sources for adults. Yesterday at Griggstown Grasslands Preserve, I found a few insects using the plants. One was the Locust Borer above; while the species's larvae feed on Black Locust trees, adults feed on nectar, especially from goldenrod plants.

There were also bees visiting the flowers for nectar, such as these Common Eastern Bumble Bees.