Golden Rod Solidago

Solidago, or Goldenrod, is a genus of herbaceous perennials in the aster family with up to 120 species and numerous cultivars. It displays small, bright yellow flowers in dense clusters on top of tall stems from July through September.  Deadheading spent flowers will result in additional blooms.

This plant is mostly native to North America; however, there are some species native to Central America, the Caribbean, South America, and Eurasia. They are often found in meadows, prairies, woodlands, thickets, and swamps.

The genus name, Solidago, is Latin for Solidus and means" to make whole." This references the plant's healing properties. Native Americans used this plant for medicinal purposes.

Goldenrod is easy to grow in full sun and average, dry to medium, well-drained soil. It is a very forgiving plant and tolerates poor, dry soils, clay, and drought.  The plant naturalizes quickly in the garden, and it may be advisable to divide it every two or three years to control its spread. Propagation is accomplished with wind-driven seeds or by the division of underground rhizomes.

Some species produce abundant nectar when moisture is plentiful, or when the weather is warm. The nectar attracts bees. wasps, and butterflies while birds are fond of seeds. It is also deer resistant.  

Goldenrod is sometimes confused with ragweed and wrongly accused of bearing the wind-borne ragweed pollen that causes allergies and hay fever.

Goldenrod hybrids and cultivars are very popular perennials in Europe and becoming so here and their color and form combine well with blue wood asters (Symphyotrichum cordifolium) and hardy ageratum (Coloclinium coelestinum).

Different species of goldenrod are found in many different environments as well as soil conditions. When selecting a plant for your landscape, it is best to consider its native habitat to ensure success. Some species are best not planted in garden settings because of their spreading rhizomatous growth. 

Seasons of Interest:

Bloom: Summer and Fall 

Quick ID Hints:

• herbaceous perennial on erect stems that sometimes has a woody base
• the leaves are simple, alternate, entire or serrate, smooth or hairy, and frequently scented
• tiny, golden flowerheads appear in wand-like clusters on the ends of the branches and curve outward

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: This plant has no serious insect or disease problems; however, rust, powdery mildew, and leaf spot may occur. Some species can be aggressive and spread easily when grown in optimal conditions.