Canada Goldenrod
Solidago canadensis
A herbaceous perennial plant featuring upright stems, alternate lanceolate leaves, and dense, terminal clusters of small, bright yellow flower heads arranged in pyramidal plumes.
- Light
- Full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily
- Water
- Low to moderate water needs once established. Drought tolerant. Water deeply when the top few inches of soil feel dry. Avoid overwatering.
- Growth
- Herbaceous perennial with an upright, clump-forming habit spreading via rhizomes. Typically reaches a mature height of 2 to 5 feet and a spread of 2 to 3 feet with a fast growth rate.
Care instructions
Provide full sun exposure and well-draining soil. Water moderately during establishment, allowing soil to dry between waterings. Minimal maintenance is required once established.
Growing details
Sunlight
Full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily
Watering
Low to moderate water needs once established. Drought tolerant. Water deeply when the top few inches of soil feel dry. Avoid overwatering.
Soil
Adaptable to various soil types including clay, loam, and sandy soils, provided they have adequate drainage. Prefers a neutral to slightly acidic pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
Hardiness zone
USDA zones 3 through 9
Growth habit
Herbaceous perennial with an upright, clump-forming habit spreading via rhizomes. Typically reaches a mature height of 2 to 5 feet and a spread of 2 to 3 feet with a fast growth rate.
Bloom season
Late summer to mid-autumn, featuring masses of small, vibrant yellow flowers arranged in showy, plume-like panicles.
Propagation
Propagated easily by division of established root clumps in spring or autumn, or by sowing seeds directly in the ground after the last frost.
Common pests & issues
Generally resilient, but may occasionally experience powdery mildew or rust in humid conditions with poor air circulation. Pests such as aphids and lace bugs can occasionally appear.
Similar species
Other Solidago species (such as Tall Goldenrod or Early Goldenrod) and invasive non-native ragweed species; goldenrods are easily distinguished by their bright yellow, showy flower clusters rather than inconspicuous green flowers.