Asteraceae

Goldenrods are members of the family  Asteraceae (asters) and are in the genus solidago. They are common plants in the local area, often growing on the edges of disturbed habitat such as roadsides and on the borders of agricultural fields and forests. They flower bright yellow from the end of summer into autumn and often occupy large areas of land, creating vast fields of shades of yellow, ranging from yellowish white to schoolbus yellow. Their stems are often hairy (pubescent) and have thin ellyptic leaves. Goldenrod leaves, especially  those from the Tall Goldenrod (Solidago altissima) are often used in teas as a decongestant. their bright flowers can be made into dye or paint. They are closely related to asters which as afformentioned share the same family with goldenrods. Asters present as daisy-like flowers usually white, yellowish, and a bright purple. Flower size can vary between aster species. They bloom around the same time as their close relatives the goldenrods. Asters are also used as a decongestant and have been used by herbalists and ancient peoples as a fever reducer.