Solidago commonly called Goldenrod is a genus of about 100 to 120 species of flowering plants in the aster family, Asteraceae. Most people are familiar with Goldenrod with its bright yellow plumes in late summer and early fall.
For years it has been blamed for the hay fever that so many people get at that time of year. Perhaps the fuzzy flowers look so pollen-laden. In fact, it is the sly, less conspicuous flowers of ragweed that cause most of the trouble.
The many species can be difficult to distinguish, due to their similar bright, golden-yellow flower heads that bloom in late summer. People also don’t realize that they are are several different species of goldenrod. Hybrid forms are even sold. In Europe, the goldenrod is more treasured as a garden plant that
The best Goldenrod Flowers to grow are probably the ones native to your area, though this is very adaptable. Most are typically found in rather infertile meadows. In fact, farmers where the soil of an abandoned field needs work if they see goldenrod growing, they are. Solidago species are perennials growing from woody caudices or rhizomes. Canada Goldenrod “Solidago canadensis” is a common species that like meadows
slightly moist in spring and dry in summer, and grows up to four feet. Wrinkled or rough-stemmed goldenrod “S.rugosa” is similar though sometimes taller. Both are hardy to zone 3. Showy or noble goldenrod “S. speciosa” can grow quite tall and has particularly fine gold flowers, hardy to zone 5 or 6. Seaside goldenrod “S. sempervirens” hardy to Zone 5, blooms a long time, even into late fall, and the leaves are evergreen. It is the best species to grow in seaside locations.
Some species produce abundant nectar when moisture is plentiful, or when the weather is warm and sunny. Moreover, this beautiful flower prefers the full sun. They can be very invasive, spreading by creeping rootstocks and self-sowing, especially in moist, fertile soil.
They may need to be controlled in a garden setting but are good flowers for a meadow garden. To propagate, divide in late winter or early spring. The flower is in some places, considered a sign of good luck or good fortune.
Also, Read Crocus Flower! Most Favorite Among Flower Lovers
