It is a perennial, large herb that reaches a height of 70-150 cm. Its natural range is in North America, but it has been introduced and successfully spread in many places in Europe. In Latvia, it is widely distributed, forming dense groups in wastelands, along railways, and roadsides. It grows mainly in populated areas and along roadsides. However, as it spreads rapidly, it can now be found anywhere, posing a threat to natural ecosystems.

Canada goldenrod is used as an ornamental and medicinal plant. It is considered a noxious weed in agricultural land because its seeds spread over long distances with the help of the wind. Growing and spreading in fields and meadows, Canada goldenrod interferes with the growth of agricultural crops and forage grasses.

In official medicine, the plant is regarded as a potent diuretic due to the active diuretic properties of saponins. Canada goldenrod raises the urine pH level, so there are limitations when using this plant in cases of phosphate stones.

Information sources: www.latvijasdaba.lv, Wikipedia, https://www.agfonds.lv