Wrinkled-leaf goldenrod
Solidago rugosa · Asteraceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant wrinkled-leaf goldenrod: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- Late summer to autumn (August-October)
- Adult size
- 80 to 150 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -20°C)
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Soil type
- Well-drained, tolerant
- Exposure
- Full sun to partial shade
Care
Exposure
Rough-stemmed goldenrod prefers full sun for generous flowering, but tolerates partial shade. Position it in a bright location to stimulate the production of golden-yellow flowers. It withstands climatic variations and windy locations very well.
Watering
Water regularly during the first year of planting to encourage root establishment. Once established, the plant is very tolerant of drought and requires water only during prolonged dry spells. In containers, keep the substrate lightly moist but without excess.
Soil and drainage
Rough-stemmed goldenrod adapts to most soils, including poor or compacted ones. Well-drained soil is preferable to prevent waterlogging. It tolerates neutral to slightly acidic pH levels. No elaborate soil preparation is necessary.
Fertilizer
Fertilizer is generally not essential. If the soil is very poor, a balanced fertilizer in spring can stimulate growth. Avoid excess nitrogen, which would promote foliage at the expense of flowers.
Pruning and maintenance
Cut the plant back to 15-20 cm from the ground in late autumn or early spring. You can also perform light pruning in early summer to thicken the shape. Remove faded flowers to extend blooming and limit self-seeding.
Diseases and pests
Rough-stemmed goldenrod is generally not prone to diseases. Watch for possible powdery mildew in case of excessive humidity; ensure good air circulation. Aphids may occasionally visit, but rarely cause problems.
Did you know?
Long suspected, wrongly, of causing seasonal allergies in North America, goldenrod was unjustly blamed in favor of ragweed, the true culprit behind the symptoms. In reality, its heavy pollen is transported by insects rather than wind, which completely exonerates it. It's one of the most beautiful botanical misunderstandings in horticultural history!
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- SunflowerHelianthus annuus
- YarrowAchillea millefolium
- Ox-eye daisyLeucanthemum vulgare
- SneezewortAchillea ptarmica
- Canadian goldenrodSolidago canadensis
- WormwoodArtemisia absinthium
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.