Most familiar goldenrod species prefer open fields. This species, however, is most often found in moist woodlands.. It only grows 1-3 feet high. It is characterized by a 4-angled stem that changes direction at each node - “zigzagging”. The flowers only have 3-4 rays and are in small clusters in the upper leaf axils and at the end of the stem. These flowers attract butterflies and bees.

The leaves of this species are toothed, very broad and pointed at the ends. The petiole may be "winged". This gives the species an alternate common name of broadleaf goldenrod. This species is found in southeastern Canada, northeastern United States, and south to Georgia in the mountains. It is present in most of the counties of PA, except a few central counties.

This species blooms from June to October. It is a perennial, herbaceous plant, forming colonies by the growth of an underground rhizome.