Glossary
A dark amber, bold-flavored honey produced by bees foraging on goldenrod flowers (Solidago species) in late summer and early fall. Goldenrod is one of the most important late-season nectar sources in North America, providing the honey that colonies store for winter survival.
Goldenrod blooms across much of North America from August through October, providing a late-season nectar flow when most other plants have finished flowering. For beekeepers, this is the difference between colonies entering winter with adequate stores and colonies needing supplemental feeding.
Goldenrod honey is dark amber with a strong, distinctive flavor that some describe as spicy, earthy, or slightly tangy. It has a noticeable odor during processing (often described as gym socks) that dissipates as the honey cures.
Goldenrod is frequently blamed for fall allergies, but the actual culprit is ragweed (Ambrosia species), which blooms at the same time. Goldenrod is insect-pollinated (heavy, sticky pollen carried by bees) while ragweed is wind-pollinated (lightweight airborne pollen that causes allergies). Goldenrod is innocent.
This confusion has given goldenrod an unfairly bad reputation. In reality, goldenrod is an essential pollinator plant that provides critical late-season nutrition for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.
Strong, complex, and distinctive. Earthy, slightly spicy, with a tangy finish. It is a bold honey that people tend to either love or find too strong. It is excellent in cooking, baking, and marinades where its assertive flavor complements savory dishes.
No. Goldenrod is insect-pollinated (not wind-pollinated), so its pollen does not become airborne in significant quantities. Ragweed, which blooms simultaneously, is the actual allergen source. The two plants are frequently confused.
Fresh goldenrod honey and the nectar during processing have a distinctive organic smell that many describe as unpleasant. This off-putting aroma dissipates within a few weeks as the honey cures. The finished honey tastes much better than it initially smells.
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