Goldenrods live up to their name: In late summer they seduce with their golden-yellow flowers. But goldenrods are not unproblematic, which is why there are a few points to consider when choosing a variety and growing it.
Goldenrods (Solidago) belong to the daisy family (Asteraceae) and are characterized by lush flowers. The late-flowering goldenrods provide insects with an important source of food and the medicinal effects of goldenrod are considerable. However, some goldenrod species are among the invasive species in Europe and should therefore be planted with care. This article provides an overview of the origin, the different types and the care of the perennial herb.
Goldenrod: origin and characteristics
Goldenrod, foxtail and ragweed are some of the numerous synonyms for goldenrod. The main distribution area of the goldenrod is in North America. Goldenrods are perennial, herbaceous plants that grow to heights of between 10 cm and 1 m. The leaves of the goldenrod are alternate and simple. Like the stems, they can be hairy or smooth. As a daisy family, the flower head is made up of many small individual flowers. The yellow flowers provide food for insects in the late growing season from August to October.
As pioneer plants, goldenrods mainly appear in dry locations that have been shaped by human intervention, such as roadsides, fallow land or waterfronts. Propagation is via rhizomes and seeds.
The most beautiful species and varieties
If you want to plant goldenrod in your garden, you have a large selection of different varieties and breeds, some of which we present here:
- Goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea): The somewhat smaller Goldenrod is native to Europe. It is usually 40 cm high and is characterized by loose inflorescences with 6 - 10 mm large flower heads.
- Small goldenrod (Solidago cutleri): Suitable as a perennial with a growth height of 20 - 40 cmthis variety is particularly good for the front of the flower bed.
- Dwarf Goldenrod (Salidago virgaurea var minutissima): This small breed will only 10 cm high and is particularly recommended for small beds. With around 40 plants per m2, a dense, light yellow carpet is created. Their potential to spread is low.
There are two invasive species of goldenrod that are not recommended for cultivation. Common neophytes include the larger and more conspicuous Canadian goldenrod (Solidago canadiensis), introduced in the 17th century, and the giant goldenrod (Solidago gigantea).Both species are 50 cm to 250 cm significantly larger than the common goldenrod and form a large number of much smaller flower heads. The two species mainly grow in human-affected sites such as fallow land and roadsides and rarely in he althy ecosystems. Since they provide plenty of food for insects, advantages are also seen in the species today. However, we recommend not necessarily selecting them for cultivation, so as not to put pressure on the native flora.
Plant goldenrod
As pioneer plants, goldenrods are adapted to extreme locations and grow well in both nutrient-poor and moderately nutrient-rich areas. Additional fertilization is usually not necessary. If possible, a full sun location should be chosen for planting the goldenrod. Sowing the seeds in spring is usually successful. The hardy perennial can be planted in spring or autumn. Goldenrods are not very sociable and prefer to be planted in small groups of three to ten individuals. For tall varieties, the optimal number per square meter is between three and five plants. The smaller the variety, the more individuals can be planted per area.
Tip: You can also propagate hybrid varieties yourself by division or cuttings. Other varieties and wild species can also be propagated from seeds.
The most important care measures
- September - October: Towards the end of the flowering period, but before seed ripening, pruning is at theCanadian goldenrod useful to prevent uncontrolled seed spread.
- March: Other varieties can be cut back in the spring before they sprout. The faded goldenrods enrich the barren garden in winter and offer shelter to insects.
- March - April: Once the goldenrods have established themselves at a location, it is advisable to divide the perennials every 3 - 4 years in order to maintain vigorous and flowering plants and to prevent mildew infestation.
Are goldenrod poisonous?
Goldenrod is not poisonous to humans, dogs, cats or rabbits. All parts of the plant can be touched without hesitation and theoretically even eaten. Only people with an allergy to daisies should be careful when handling the plant.
Goldenrod: effect and use
During the flowering period, the flower tips are collected and dried. In addition to the common goldenrod, the Canadian and the giant goldenrod also have comparable, effective ingredients and can be collected.
The medical effectiveness of goldenrod as a flushing therapy for bladder problems, urinary stones and kidney diseases is considered to be certain. The most common use of goldenrod herb is as a tea - often in combination with other herbs. This has a draining and antispasmodic effect, and the metabolism is stimulated by improving urinary excretion.
Tip: For a goldenrod tea, 2 teaspoons of dried goldenrod flowers are scalded with 250 ml of boiling water. After a steeping time of 10 minutes you can enjoy it.
Alternatively, a goldenrod tincture can be used. To prepare, fill a jar full of fresh, chopped goldenrod herb with 70% alcohol and seal tightly. The tincture is ready after two to three weeks of steeping. For internal use, for example for bladder problems, take 20-30 drops per day. For minor injuries, the tincture can also be used externally as a disinfectant for small wounds.
Tip: Goldenrod can also be used in the garden. An extract of goldenrod flowers can be sprayed on the leaves to prevent powdery mildew and brown rot. Thereforescald finely chopped heads of goldenrod with boiling water and let steep for an hour.
Goldenrods are sun loving perennials. If you also want a colorful variety of flowers in shady locations in the garden, we have put together 10 perennials for you that also grow in the shade.