USDA lists two varieties and ITIS list two subspecies:
ssp. decemflora: (syn: var. longipetiolata); found in central/rocky mtns US; basal leaves usually not crenate, often linear-oblanceolate; prairies (rarely in forested areas)
ssp. nemoralis: found in eastern US; basal leaves usually crenate, oblanceolate to obovate; open areas and open woods in eastern deciduous forest
Note one of the smaller goldenrods (<1 m.), slight short hairs on stems, longer 1 nerved lanceolate basal leaves, stems leaves are shorter and have secondary leaflets of 5 leaf whorled clusters. Yellow flower clusters on top from short stems.
Piedmont, SC
TRAIL: Stevens Creek Preserve; Savannah Bluff Preserve
HABITAT: mixed forest, powerline R/W
ELEVATION: 80 m (260 ft); 40 m (135 ft)
BLOOM TIME: 16-OCT; 19-OCT