Solidago ouachitensis is likely a relict of times when conditions were colder and wetter. It only occurs in the cooler, moister sites in the Ouachita Mountains, usually in wet forest habitat on north-facing slopes. Associated species include Magnolia tripetala, Fagus grandifolia, Acer rubrum, Quercus rubra, Aesculus glabra, Asarum canadense, Campanula americana, Panax quinquefolium, Toxicodendron radicans, and Hybanthus concolor.