Negative and positive aspects of the presence of Canadian goldenrod in the environment

Abstract Canadian goldenrod (Solidago canadensis L.) is classified as an invasive plant species in many Eurasian countries. The species shows a great ability to environmentally spread in a variety of habitats, anthropogenic ones included. Based on the literature data, the paper discusses the negative effects of the presence of S. canadensis in the environment, including the reduction of biodiversity in plants and some species of insects and insectivorous birds. The occurrence of goldenrod clusters also contributes to soil degradation. Positive aspects related to the presence of S. canadensis are also discussed in the paper. Goldenrod can be used in the phytoremediation of soils contaminated with heavy metals and as an energy plant. Its extracts are effective in controlling the bloom of some algae in water reservoirs and in fighting fungal and bacterial diseases in plants. Goldenrod inflorescences’ abounding nectar allows for the efficient harvesting of honey. Both the inflorescences and the leaves of the plant are a valuable herbal raw material with a wide spectrum of activity, including its impact on gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria and yeasts. For these reasons, goldenrod deserves special attention in environmental research.