Lost Plant Species Rediscovered in New York

Researchers at SUNY ESF have found thriving populations of seaside goldenrod, a plant that was previously thought to have vanished from the region.

Since the plants are growing in heavily trafficked and seemingly inhospitable areas, they could become an important component in urban landscaping. Researchers say that the native plant is ideal to use in urban rain gardens and retention basins.

"Well they have tremendous utilitarian value as well as the aesthetic value, but we really think that they are an ideal plant to help us with dealing with some serious pollution problems that otherwise would cost tens of thousands, if not millions, of dollars to deal with," said SUNY ESF faculty member Don 
Leopold.

Also, seaside goldenrod will not aggravate allergies unlike ragweed which blooms around the same time of year.