Solidago flexicaulis (broad-leaved goldenrod)

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Solidago, Genus, flexicaulis, Species,

Genus & species

broad-leaved goldenrod

Asteraceae eastern North America

Attracts Pollinators Attracts Butterflies

SunPart Shade – Full Shade

WaterMedium

HardinessZones 3–8

Overview

Solidago flexicaulis, broad-leaved or zigzag goldenrod, is a herbaceous perennial in the sunflower family found in the woodlands of eastern North America. It grows 12-36 inches (30-90 cm) tall on a stem that bends slightly at each leaf node, giving a zigzag line. Unlike the narrow-leaved goldenrods of open fields, it has broad, oval leaves 2-6 inches (5-15 cm) long with coarsely toothed margins and winged stalks. Small yellow flower heads are clustered in short sprays in the leaf axils and at the stem tip, opening from late summer into autumn. The plant spreads slowly by creeping rhizomes to form loose colonies in shaded ground. It grows in rich, moist deciduous forest, on slopes, and along shaded streambanks, tolerating more shade than many goldenrods. Foliage dies back to the ground in winter. In rich garden soil the rhizomes can spread beyond their intended area, and the stems may lean in deep shade. The pollen is heavy and insect-carried, so it does not contribute to hay fever despite its bloom season.

Native Range

Native to eastern North America, from Nova Scotia and Quebec west to Minnesota and south through the Appalachians to Georgia and Arkansas. It grows in moist, rich hardwood forests, on wooded slopes, and along shaded stream banks.

Suggested Uses

Used in woodland and shade gardens, native plantings, and naturalized borders under trees. Combines with ferns, sedges, and other shade perennials for late-season color in dappled light.

How to Identify

Identified by a stem that zigzags from node to node, broad oval leaves 2-6 inches (5-15 cm) long with sharply toothed edges and winged bases, and small yellow flower clusters tucked in the upper leaf axils. The broad leaves and shaded woodland habitat separate it from the narrow-leaved, plume-flowered goldenrods of sunny fields.

Appearance

Size & Dimensions

Height1' - 3'

Width/Spread1' - 2'

Colors

Flower Colors

yellow

Foliage Colors

green

Bloom Information

Bloom Period

~4 weeks

Flowers: August–October

Summer Fall

Yellow flower clusters open from August to October, with peak bloom in September. Flowering continues for about 4-6 weeks. Tufted seed heads follow and release into late autumn.

Detailed Descriptions

Foliage Description

green

Growing Conditions

Sun Requirements

SunPartial Shade SunFull Shade

Requires 2-6 hours of direct sunlight daily

• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight

• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight

• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight

Soil Requirements

pH Range5.5 - 7.0 (Acidic to neutral)

3579

Soil Types

loam

Drainagemoist

Water & Climate

Water Needs

Medium

Frost Tolerance

hardy

Care & Maintenance

Care Guide

Grows in partial to full shade on moist, humus-rich, well-drained soils. It needs steadier moisture than field goldenrods and can scorch in dry, sunny sites. Plants spread by rhizomes to form colonies and can be divided in spring or fall. Propagation is also by seed, which germinates without special treatment after a cold winter. Few pests trouble it, though leaf spot and rust can appear in crowded, humid conditions. Cutting back in spring is unnecessary, as old growth breaks down over winter.

Pruning

No routine pruning is needed. Spent stems can be cut to the ground in late fall or left until spring for winter cover. Dividing the rhizomes every few years keeps colonies in bounds.

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Related Solidago species