Solidago

(Compositae - daisy family)

Goldenrod. About 120 species of summer- and fall-flowering perennial herbs. Widely distributed, but concentrated in North America. Often regarded as weeds, but the ornamental merit of many species is such that they well deserve to be cultivated. Often mistakenly condemned as a cause of hay fever, goldenrods are a victim of their own showiness. Other plants, such as ragweed, which blossom at the same time but escape attention because they do not have conspicuous flowers are the cause of most of the allergy problems. Goldenrods typically are long-lived and require little maintenance. They have some value as food and cover for birds and other animals. The species listed here bear clusters of yellow flowers in late summer or fall

caesia

peren • ht 3' • zones 4-9

blue-stemmed goldenrod

native, fragrant, sun - part shade

Graceful, slender, arching purple stems and compact clusters of fragrant flowers distributed along the stem distinguish this species. Unusual for goldenrod, it grows naturally mainly in forests. May prefer a bit of shade, but does well in full sun as long as the soil is not too dry.

cat # 6Y3C
$7.95 each / 3+, $7.50 ea

rugosa

peren • ht 3-5' • zones 3-9

rough-stemmed goldenrod

native, dry - moist, sun

A common species, often appearing in old fields. Spreads slowly to form a colony. Notable for its ability to form a dense, stable, weed-free ground cover. We are propagating a native selection which forms a compact clump about 3' tall, and bears showy terminal clusters of bright yellow flowers in late summer and early fall. Tolerant of poor, dry soil.

cat # 6Y3T
$7.95 each / 3+, $7.50 ea