[5] Similar plants found in the Azores (now Solidago azorica) are thought have evolved from a natural introduction of this species.

[6][7] Solidago sempervirens is a succulent, herbaceous perennial that reaches heights of 4–6 feet (120–180 cm).

Flower heads are found in a large paniculiform inflorescence at the top of the plant, often with branches that bend backwards towards the base.

[8] In nature, S. sempervirens is primarily a plant of the seashore, and is accordingly found along coasts of the Atlantic Ocean, the Caribbean, and the Gulf of Mexico from Central America north as far as Newfoundland.

It is occasionally cultivated as an ornamental, preferring sunny locations with sandy soil, with little competition from other species.