Solidago virgaurea (goldenrod) — perennial herb

Overview

Solidago virgaurea is a perennial herb in the genus Solidago, part of the Asteraceae family. It typically grows around 0.6 m tall and 0.7 m wide. Solidago virgaurea grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is native to Most of Europe and including Britain.

About the genus

Solidago, commonly called goldenrod, is a genus of about 100 to 120 species of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae. Most are herbaceous perennial species found in open areas such as meadows, prairies, and savannas. They are mostly native to North America, including Mexico; a few species are native to South America and Eurasia.

Wikipedia contributors, "Solidago", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Solidago

In the garden

Solidago virgaurea is a clump-forming perennial herb from the aster family, native to most of Europe including Britain. In the UK it reliably produces masses of small yellow flower heads in late summer, providing colour from August to October. Specimens sold in cultivation are commonly used to extend the flowering season into autumn. Position the plant in full sun; it tolerates a range of soil types — sandy, loamy or clay — provided conditions are well-drained or at least moist but not waterlogged. It is rated H7 for UK hardiness (fully hardy) and corresponds to USDA zones 4–8, so it withstands typical UK winter conditions without additional shelter. Allow room for its roughly 0.7 m spread when planting so stems have air around them. In garden use it suits the mid to rear of sunny herbaceous borders, naturalistic drifts and meadow-style schemes where late-summer colour is required. At about 0.6 m tall it forms a compact swathe of yellow bloom in August to October, making it a straightforward option for extending the season of interest where full sun is available.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Solidago

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Sandy, Loamy, Clay
Soil moisture: Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
Exposure: full sun
UK hardiness: H7

Plant details

Solidago virgaurea size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: perennial herb
Height: 0.6 m
Spread: 0.7 m
Native to: Most of Europe, including Britain

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Solidago virgaurea

Propagation: seed, division

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Solidago virgaurea?

Solidago virgaurea prefers full sun. It suits full sun positions.

What soil does Solidago virgaurea need?

Solidago virgaurea is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.

How big does Solidago virgaurea grow?

Solidago virgaurea reaches a height of 0.6 m and a spread of 0.7 m.

Is Solidago virgaurea hardy in the UK?

Solidago virgaurea has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.