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Herbaceous Perennial

Solidago gigantea
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

early goldenrod

A rhizomatous, clump-forming perennial with upright, hairless stems to around 2m tall and toothed, lance-shaped leaves. Pyramidal panicles of flowerheads to 30cm long and comprising densely-clustered, small golden-yellow flowers are borne from late summer into early autumn

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Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
1–1.5 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained, Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Yellow Gold Green
Autumn Yellow Gold Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed
Hardiness
H7
Botanical details
Family
Asteraceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Clump forming
Genus

Solidago are woody-based perennials, some invasive, with erect stems bearing narrow leaves and terminal panicles or racemes of small yellow flowers in summer and autumn

Name status

Correct

Plant range
North America, Mexico

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in poor to moderately fertile, preferably sandy, well-drained soil in full sun

Propagation

Propagate by division in autumn or spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Prairie planting
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Cut flowers
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

Cut back after flowering to prevent self-seeding

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to powdery mildews

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