Tall Goldenrod
solidago altissima
Also known as: ["Canada Goldenrod","High Goldenrod"]
Overview
A tall, herbaceous perennial native to North America, 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 altissima |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed in open areas, meadows, or along fence lines
- 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; avoid heavy, waterlogged soils.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; tolerates poor soils but thrives with amendments.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering; may require light trimming during 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 to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure adequate air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid placing in deep shade.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in dormant periods
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep roots; avoid waterlogging; prioritize soil dryness between waterings.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; avoid over-amending with fertilizers.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cold but may struggle in prolonged heat.
Monitor soil temperature; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize sparingly; apply before active growth; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; seeds can also be used but may take longer to establish.
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; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; plants may take a full season to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruners, 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
Deadhead spent flowers; cut back stems to just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; cut back after flowering to maintain shape and vigor.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead or damaged stems; shape as needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes are present.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure proper drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Use fresh soil; check for root bound; trim roots if needed; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow water to penetrate deeply, then drain; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth, reducing frequency in winter or drought; adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; avoid compacting soil.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, stunted growth, or premature flowering in excessive heat; yellowing or browning leaves in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to root damage if soil freezes.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; provide wind protection; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; flowering may be reduced; growth may become stunted.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply at recommended dilution; fertilize in spring only.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; discontinue in late summer to promote hardiness.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSolidago altissima is not considered toxic to cats. The plant lacks compounds that are known to be harmful to felines. Ingestion may result in mild gastrointestinal upset, but serious toxicity is not expected.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Non-toxicSolidago altissima is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain known toxic compounds that would cause significant harm to canines. However, ingestion may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's fibrous nature.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Non-toxicSolidago altissima, commonly known as tall goldenrod, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingestion in large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to its high fiber content and potential irritant effects on the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Tall Goldenrod invasive?
A: While it can spread vigorously, it is not typically considered invasive in most regions.
Q: Does Tall Goldenrod attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: How tall does Tall Goldenrod grow?
A: It typically reaches heights of 3 to 6 feet.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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