Goldenrod: a striking late-summer showstopper—here’s how it will thrive in your garden

The European goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea) is found throughout most of Europe. Historically, it was used for medicinal purposes, especially for urinary tract issues. Its vivid yellow blossoms can also be used to dye yarn.

The yellow flower heads of the goldenrod attract plenty of butterflies and pollinators. Depending on the growing conditions, it grows to about 60–100 centimeters in height.

Once planted in the garden, the goldenrod will become a lush, multi-branched showpiece after a few years. Good companion plants include coneflowers, bee balm, obedient plant, and oxeye daisies.

The European goldenrod’s subspecies Solidago virgaurea subsp. minuta is shorter and has larger blossoms than the European goldenrod. It can thrive in the northernmost parts of the world, and it is commonly found in northern Finland, for example. In the fells of the north, it may grow only 2–20 centimeters tall, but in southern Finland, when grown as a garden plant, it can reach 30–40 centimeters.

Goldenrod growing:

Where goldenrod grows best

The goldenrod thrives in full sun and will produce only few flowers in the shade.

The right soil for goldenrod

The goldenrod adapts well to a range of conditions. Ordinary garden soil will suffice in the garden, and it also tolerates dry, sandy soil. Be sure to weed thoroughly.

Fertilizing goldenrod

The goldenrod does not require regular fertilization.

Propagating goldenrod

The goldenrod can be started from seeds or cuttings. Its seeds need light to germinate, so make sure not to cover them. In the first growing season, the goldenrod will only grow a basal rosette, with flowering starting in the second year.