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Solidago canadensis - Canada Goldenrod

Updated: Oct 6

Canada Goldenrod (Solidago canadensis)


Description

A tall, sun-loving perennial, Canada Goldenrod (Solidago canadensis) brings a burst of golden-yellow color to late summer and fall landscapes. Its upright stems support dense plumes of small flowers that attract pollinators in droves, especially bees, butterflies, and beneficial wasps. Though often misunderstood as invasive, Canada Goldenrod plays an essential role in native ecosystems when used responsibly.


Ideal Uses

  • Meadow and prairie-style plantings

  • Pollinator gardens

  • Naturalistic borders and wildlife habitats

  • Restoration and erosion control projects


Plant Profile

Botanical Name: Solidago canadensis

Common Name: Canada Goldenrod

Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial

Height: 3–6 feetSpread: 2–4 feet

Bloom Time: Late summer to fall (August–October)

Flower Color: Golden yellow

Light Requirements: Full sun to light shadeSoil: Average to poor, well-drained soils

Water Needs: Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established

USDA Hardiness Zones: 3–9

Wildlife Support: Excellent nectar source for pollinators; supports native bees, butterflies, and birds


Maintenance Tips

  • Cut back to the ground in late fall or early spring

  • May spread by rhizomes and seed; cut back before seeding to control spread

  • Tolerant of neglect and thrives in poor soils

  • Deadhead if reseeding is not desired



Bright golden flower spikes in summer
Vibrant Canada Goldenrod (Solidago canadensis) showcasing its bright yellow blooms in full glory.

Design Notes

Plant in groups for visual impact and ecological value. Combine with asters, little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium), Echinacea, and Monarda for a dynamic late-season display. In more formal gardens, use sparingly or in contained beds to manage its vigorous growth.


Ecological Notes

Canada Goldenrod (Solidago canadensis) is a keystone plant for native pollinators and beneficial insects. It supports dozens of bee species, provides late-season nectar, and creates habitat structure in naturalized settings. Despite its aggressive nature, it is an important native species in much of North America.


Cautions

  • Spreads aggressively by rhizomes and seed; monitor or contain in small garden spaces.

  • Can crowd out more delicate species if unmanaged.

  • Best avoided in non-native regions where it may be invasive.

  • Often confused with ragweed for causing allergies, but goldenrod is not wind-pollinated and is unlikely to trigger allergic reactions.

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