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Key characteristics

Family: Asteraceae
Height: 4 to 6 feet
Width: 24 to 36 inches
Flower color: Bright golden yellow flowers in large arching plume like clusters
Foliage color: Medium green lance shaped leaves along upright stems
Bloom time: Late summer to fall
Light: Full sun
Water: Moderate moisture in well drained soil with tolerance for dry conditions once established
Maintenance: Moderate; spread by rhizomes so clumps may need thinning to control vigorous growth
Growing zone: USDA zones 3 to 9
Wildlife: Attracts bees butterflies and other pollinators

Perennials

Solidago altissima

Tall Goldenrod

Solidago altissima develops upright stems lined with narrow, lance shaped green leaves arranged alternately along the stalks, creating a vertical, leafy framework through the growing season. In late summer into fall, the upper stems branch into broad, arching plumes composed of many small golden yellow flower clusters that open in succession and create a soft cloud of color.

Native to much of North America, the species occurs naturally in prairies, open fields, and roadside habitats.

Light

Full sun

Water

Moderate moisture in well drained soil with tolerance for dry conditions once established

Bloom time

Late summer to fall

Find this plant

Works well in

Borders
Sun Gardens
Pollinator Gardens
Waterwise Gardens
Cut Flower Gardens

Companion plants

Lavender · Coreopsis · Russian sage · Sedums · Peonies · Coneflowers

Design tip

Late flowers extend the season, so set it behind or beside plants that finish in midsummer. In full sun it holds its shape best, and grouping several together keeps the color strong enough to be seen from across the garden.

Printable plant sheet (PDF)