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Herbaceous Perennial

Solidago virgaurea
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

goldenrod

A herbaceous perennial to 50cm tall, forming a clump of sparsely branched stems bearing slender, toothed leaves. In late summer it produces narrow flower spikes composed of numerous tiny yellow flowers

Other common names
Aaron's rod
golden rod
see morewoundweed
woundwort
Synonyms
Solidago vulgaris
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Yellow Green
Autumn Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H7
Botanical details
Family
Asteraceae
Native to the UK
Yes
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
Most of Europe, including Britain

How to grow

Cultivation

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

Propagation

Propagate by division in early spring

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

Remove flowered stems to prevent self-seeding

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to Powdery mildews

Get involved

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