Also called noble goldenrod, this rhizomatous herbaceous perennial is native to central and eastern US where it grows in open woods and fields. It is a member of the aster family, Asteraceae, that also includes daisy, yarrow, and lettuce. Growing 3-6′ tall from a thick underground caudex, the plant has up to five reddish stems bearing narrow lanceolate leaves 4-10″ long. Dense, terminal clusters of flowerheads appear from mid to early fall. Each cluster is 12″ long and composed of up to 300 tiny yellow flowerheads that are each 1/4″ wide and are attractive to bees and butterflies. The seeds that follow are eaten by song birds. Showy goldenrod is a good choice for naturalizing and growing in borders, meadow, wildlife, native plant, cottage, and wildflower gardens. The genus name, Solidago, comes from the Latin words solidus, meaning whole and agere meaning to do, and refers to the wound healing properties of some members of the genus. The specific epithet, speciosa, is the Latin word for beautiful/showy.
Type: Herbaceous perennial
Bloom: Terminal clusters of small yellow flowerheads from mid to early fall
Size: 3-6′ H x 2-3′ W
Light: Full sun; tolerates some shade
Soil: Average, dry to medium moist, well-drained; tolerates lean soil and drought; becomes floppy in rich soil.
Hardiness: Zones 3-8
Care: Deadhead to prolong bloom; divide every 2-3 years to manage size.
Pests and Diseases: Generally disease free but susceptible to rust, powdery mildew, and leaf spot.
Propagation: Seed; division in spring or after flowering.
Companion Plants: Coneflower, black-eyed Susan, ornamental grasses
Photo Credit: Wikipedia
Karen Meyers