Zigzag goldenrod (Solidago nemoralis) is one of several goldenrod species that grow in the shade. In the fall, the crooked, zigzag stems are lined with clusters of vibrant yellow flowers.
Goldenrods are keystone species that support many pollinators as both nectar sources and host plants. They are larval host plants to dozens of moth species and many specialized mining bee species (Family Andrenidae). Goldenrods are often falsely blamed for causing seasonal allergies; the real culprit is ragweed (Ambrosia spp.), which flowers at the same time.