California Goldenrod is a keystone plant in many communities  offering nectar to butterflies and other native pollinators  and seeds for birds.  Aesthetically  it provides a welcome splash of bright yellow color to the garden  flowering from late summer through autumn  at a time when other flowering natives are just about winding down.  Light green leaves are low growing to 2? tall  with stalks bearing small clusters of yellow flowers rising up another foot in late summer.  California Goldenrod prefers full sun  but can make do with part sun or light shade  and also tolerates a variety of watering conditions  going from very moist conditions in spring to near drought tolerance in autumn.  Giving supplemental water during summer extends its blooming period.  California Goldenrod is a good choice for erosion control  as it grows with a spreading habit by rhizomes that is easily controlled if need be.  It is deciduous  so cut back in winter once flowering is done.  A great choice for borders and wildlife gardens  it blends in well with salvias to welcome birds and butterflies.