Solidago rugosa 'Fireworks'

'Fireworks' is a cultivar of the native herbaceous perennial S. rugosa in the Asteraceae (daisy) family. Plants form a bushy, upright clump reaching 2 to 3 feet tall and wide of dark-green leaves and grow best in moist, well-drained soil, but are somewhat tolerant of dry and wet soils. 

In late summer the blooms appear along 18-inch arching stems held above the foliage to provide a stunning display of yellow flowers that resemble fireworks, hence the cultivar name.  These blooms are very attractive to various butterflies and bees. It pairs nicely with the blues and lavenders of asters or Joe-pye weed. 'Fireworks' is not aggressive and will not try to take over your garden as it spreads slowly by rhizomes. Divide every three to four years or as needed. Cut the plant down in early spring before it starts growing again. Native bees nest in the dead, hollow stems, so gardeners are encouraged to cut back dead stems to 12 to 24 inches and allow them to remain standing until they disintegrate on their own. Read more about best practices for stem-nesting bees in this NC Extension publication.

Use in the border of a native or pollinator garden or naturalized meadow setting.  This plant is resistant to browsing by deer.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  No significant problems.

More information on Solidago rugosa.