Solidago, commonly called Goldenrod, is a genus of about 120 species of flowering plants in the Aster Family, Asteraceae. Topped with plumes of fluffy yellow flowers, Goldenrod is sometimes considered a weed.
Unknowing gardeners may find it a nuisance and wonder, "What is the plant Goldenrod good for?" Goldenrod plants have multiple uses, from providing shelter to larvae of beneficial insects to attracting butterflies. Learn how to grow goldenrod and experience many benefits.
After learning the many benefits of planting Goldenrod and the simplicity of Goldenrod care, you may wish to include it near your garden. Goldenrod plants provide nectar for migrating butterflies and bees, encouraging them to remain in the area and pollinate your crops. Planting Goldenrod near the vegetable garden can draw bad bugs away from valuable vegetables. Goldenrods attract beneficial insects, which may do away with damaging insects when they approach the food source offered by these plants. More than a hundred varieties of Goldenrod exist, with one for every climate. Many are native to the United States.
Goldenrod plants are clump-forming perennial wildflowers that exist on rainwater and add a golden beauty to the landscape. Often thought of as the cause of summer allergies, the species is falsely accused, as the pollen from allergy-creating ragweed is present at the time of Goldenrod blooms. All Goldenrods are late bloomers, flowering in late summer throughout fall with stunning bright yellow flowers.
Growing Conditions and General Care
Growing and planting Goldenrod is easy, as this plant will survive just about anywhere, though it does prefer to be grown in full sun. Goldenrod also tolerates various soil types as long as it's well-draining.
Goldenrod care is minimal once established in the landscape, with plants returning each year. They require little, if any, watering and are drought tolerant.
Clumps need division every four to five years. Cuttings may also be taken in spring and planted in the garden.
Learning how to grow Goldenrod offers many advantages. Bad bugs can be drawn to the plant and consumed by beneficial insects that hatch their young. Planting Goldenrod adds beauty and attracts butterflies to your landscape.
Source: gardeningknowhow.com
Links
- Back to genus Solidago
- Plantpedia: Browse flowering plants by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, or Origin