Check out what’s in bloom on Gov­er­nors Island, updat­ed seasonally.

Fall

Seaside goldenrod

Solidago sempervirens

Seaside goldenrod is an herbaceous perennial that can grow up to 4-6 feet. It has ticker, toothless, hairless leaves that distinguish it from other species of goldenrod. This vibrant fall bloomer is a pollinator’s dream, providing for many different species of bees, wasps, flies, beetles, butterflies, and moths. Their seeds provide valuable food sources for many of the migratory birds that pass through Governors Island, and they can often be found growing alongside many different species of aster in the fall.

Where to find them: Along the edges of paths in Hammock Grove and throughout Outlook Hill and Discovery Hill.

New England Aster

Aster novae-angliae

New England asters are late-summer and fall blooming perennials that are native to the New York region. Much like goldenrod, they provide vital food sources for many different pollinators, including the golden northern bumble bee—a vulnerable species of bee that has been seen in increasing numbers on Governors Island in the past several years.

Where to find them: In the planted areas in Hammock Grove and throughout Outlook Hill and Discovery Hill.

Sugar maple

Acer saccharum

Sugar maples are perhaps best known as the primary source of maple syrup, along with their spectacular fall foliage. Sugar maples are deciduous trees and can grow up to 150 feet. There are 7 sugar maples on Governors Island, all of which are mature and located in Nolan Park. It’s believed they were planted in the early 19th century, when the area was designated housing for U.S. Army officers and their families.

Where to find them: Nolan Park

Pho­tos by Juli­enne Schaer & Tim­o­thy Schenck