It is found in Canada (Ontario and Nova Scotia) and the eastern and central United States (from Maine west to Minnesota, south as far as Texas and the Florida Panhandle).

[3] Its natural habitat is thin woodlands and bluffs, often over calcareous substrates.

This species is found in both high quality and degraded habitats, such as the shaded edges of lawns and old fields.

[5][6] Solidago ulmifolia is a perennial herb up to 120 cm (4 feet) tall, with a woody underground caudex.

[4] This species is host to the following insect induced galls: external link to gallformers Two varieties of Solidago ulmifolia are currently recognized.