Giant Goldenrod
solidago gigantea
Also known as: ["European Goldenrod","Giant Goldenrod"]
Overview
A tall, herbaceous perennial native to Europe and naturalized in North America, known for its bright yellow, plume-like flowers that bloom 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 gigantea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: open meadows, prairies, or sunny garden borders
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in early spring; deadhead spent flowers throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent mildew in humid conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun is ideal; rotate pots for even growth; avoid deep shade for best flowering.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in dormant periods
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep roots; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, moderately fertile soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–7. Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C) during active growth.
Protect from frost in early spring; avoid placing in drafty areas; ensure good air circulation in heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in fall and winter
Fertilize sparingly; apply before new growth emerges; stop fertilizing in late summer to avoid late-season growth.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is not in full bloom.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–4 weeks; establish in new location within one growing season.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back stems to just above a leaf node or bud; deadhead by cutting above the next set of leaves.
Pruning Plan
Prune to control spread, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune in early spring; deadhead regularly; remove weak or damaged stems.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Solidago gigantea can spread aggressively, so container growth may require division.
Checklist
Choose a larger pot; use fresh soil; trim roots if necessary; water thoroughly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Apply until water drains from the bottom, then allow the soil to dry before the next watering.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once per week during active growth, reducing frequency in winter to every 2–3 weeks. 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
Chlorosis or leaf scorch in excessive heat; stunted growth or bud drop in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Plants may become dormant in winter but can suffer from frost damage if not hardy in their zone.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in fall; provide wind protection in exposed locations; choose hardy cultivars for colder zones.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in hot climates; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in early spring; avoid late-season feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Avoid over-fertilizing, as Solidago can thrive in poor soils.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset and allergic reactions if they ingest Solidago gigantea. The plant's sesquiterpene lactones can cause irritation to the digestive tract and skin.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Solidago gigantea can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of sesquiterpene lactones. While generally not life-threatening, the plant can cause discomfort and allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicSolidago gigantea, commonly known as giant goldenrod, contains sesquiterpene lactones which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and allergic reactions in some individuals. The plant's compounds may irritate the mucous membranes and skin upon contact or ingestion.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Giant Goldenrod invasive?
A: Yes, it can be highly invasive in some regions, spreading rapidly via rhizomes.
Q: Does Goldenrod cause hay fever?
A: While often blamed, Goldenrod pollen is heavy and not wind-borne; its allergenicity is moderate.
Q: How tall does Giant Goldenrod grow?
A: It can reach heights of 3–6 feet, sometimes taller.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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