Broad-leaved Goldenrod
solidago flexicaulis
Also known as: ["Broad-leaved Goldenrod","Broadleaf Goldenrod"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to North America, known for its bright yellow flowers that bloom in late summer to fall.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Solidago |
| Botanical Name: | Solidago flexicaulis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: woodland garden, shaded border, or naturalized area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter; well-draining but moisture-retentive.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering or in early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old stems to encourage new growth.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of morning sun preferred); tolerates dappled light in hotter climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching; place in partial shade during peak afternoon heat; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Morning sun is ideal; avoid harsh afternoon sun; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in dormant periods
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep roots; avoid waterlogging; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings.
Soil
moist, rich, well-drained loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; enrich with organic matter; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights and seasonal fluctuations.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize sparingly; apply in spring before flowering; use organic options like compost for better results.
Propagation
Methods
Division or stem cuttings; division is preferred for mature plants.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide clumps into sections with roots.
- For cuttings, take 4–6 inch stems, remove lower leaves, and plant in medium.
Best Time: Early spring or fall when the plant is not in active bloom.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; protect from direct sun and drafts.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water for cuttings.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates for stem cuttings.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; stem cuttings: roots in 3–6 weeks, full establishment in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp, sterile knife or shears, rooting hormone (optional), pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Divide every 3–4 years to maintain vigor; use clean tools to prevent disease; keep cuttings consistently moist.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to the base or just above a healthy bud; avoid cutting into old wood.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged stems after flowering; thin overcrowded clumps to improve air circulation.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners, gloves, sterilizing solution (e.g., rubbing alcohol).
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead/damaged stems; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, and water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if crowded; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Apply until water begins to drain from the bottom, then allow the soil to dry slightly before the next watering.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth, reducing frequency in winter or during dormancy. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn purple or brown; growth slows or halts; risk of root damage in freezing conditions.
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; move potted plants to a sheltered location; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or drooping; reduced flowering; increased susceptibility to pests.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; improve air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; water after fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing, especially in shade-grown plants.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest Solidago flexicaulus. The plant is not considered highly toxic, but ingestion should be avoided to prevent discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Solidago flexicaulis can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. While not typically life-threatening, the plant may cause discomfort and should be kept out of reach of pets.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicSolidago flexicaulis contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and allergic reactions in some individuals. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can be problematic for sensitive individuals or those with pre-existing conditions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Solidago flexicaulis toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its bright yellow flowers.
Q: How much sunlight does Solidago flexicaulis need?
A: It tolerates partial shade to full sun, making it adaptable to various garden conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
