The first is perhaps a Solidago sp. - goldenrod.

2nd possibly a Helianthus sp. It will likely bloom this year.

The first one is definitely goldenrod. I remember getting excited about seeing this growing in my perennial bed in my early gardening years, wondering if was something I forgot I planted, but sadly became disappointed when it bloomed, not only in my garden but along the roadsides too.

many of the larger perennials take 2 or 3 seasons.. to grow the root mass .. to produce the flower ... but once they do.. they should every year ..

until you decide one is a weed and you dont need it in your garden regardless of whether or not the flowers are pretty ...

ken

Thanks everyone. The goldenrod is going, I have had helianthus and still have a very tall one with purple tinged leaves which I recently moved. I think this shorter one needs more sun.

PRN - cool initials. Prince Rogers Nelson is my favorite musician.