Canada Goldenrod
solidago canadensis
Also known as: ["Canadian Goldenrod","Giant Goldenrod"]
Overview
A tall, herbaceous perennial known for its bright yellow, daisy-like flowers in late summer and fall.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Solidago |
| Botanical Name: | Solidago canadensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden beds, meadows, or naturalized areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Moderate drainage; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter; well-draining but moisture-retentive.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; can be lightly pruned in early spring to remove dead growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; cut stems back by one-third to one-half after flowering.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer blooms.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun in hot climates; ensure outdoor placement in open areas for best growth.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in dormant periods
Water thoroughly until runoff, ensure soil dries between waterings, and avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, moderately fertile soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted, maintain consistent moisture, and amend annually with organic matter.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); can tolerate cooler nights and brief frosts.
Protect from frost, avoid placing near heat sources, and adjust watering for temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none required in fall and winter
Fertilize only during active growth, use a balanced formula, and flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, and transplant once rooted.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), high humidity, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–4 weeks; plants establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining mix, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead spent blooms and cut stems cleanly with sharp tools to avoid tearing.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming and cut back stems after flowering to maintain shape and vigor.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, and disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, cut at a 45-degree angle, remove dead/damaged growth, and clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, and water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare new soil, inspect roots, water after repotting, and place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid wetting leaves, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, apply until water drains from the bottom, ensure excess water exits the pot, and water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once per week during active growth; reduce frequency in winter to every 2–3 weeks, allowing soil to dry between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; mix in perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or failure to flower in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and can lead to root damage in prolonged freezing conditions.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base, move potted plants indoors, or cover outdoor plants during hard freezes.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may be reduced in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade, increase watering frequency, and use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, use diluted fertilizer, water before feeding, avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSolidago canadensis is not considered toxic to cats. Similar to dogs, ingestion of small amounts is unlikely to cause significant harm, though excessive consumption may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSolidago canadensis is not considered toxic to dogs. Ingestion of small amounts is unlikely to cause significant harm, though excessive consumption may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSolidago canadensis, commonly known as Canada goldenrod, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, some individuals may experience mild skin irritation upon contact due to the plant's natural compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Canada Goldenrod invasive?
A: Yes, it can be highly invasive in some regions, spreading rapidly via rhizomes.
Q: Does Goldenrod cause hay fever?
A: No, it is often wrongly blamed for allergies; its pollen is heavy and not wind-borne.
Q: How do I control its spread?
A: Dig out rhizomes or use barriers to contain growth.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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