Solidago gigantea , usually cognise as Giant Goldenrod or Late Goldenrod , is a member of theSolidagogenus within the Asteraceae phratry , often refer to as the aster , daisy , or sunflower family . This species is distinguish by its tall height and large , arch plumes of bright yellow flowers . The genus name “ Solidago ” infer from the Latin word “ solidus ” and “ ago , ” meaning “ to make whole , ” reflecting its historical use in herbal medicine . “ Gigantea ” denote to its giant size among goldenrod .
Solidago gigantea is native to North America , with its cooking stove covering a all-inclusive area from easterly Canada down through the United States , extending from the Atlantic seacoast westward to the Great Plains and into parts of the Midwest . It thrives in various habitats including moist hayfield , riverbanks , floodplains , and along roadside , showcasing its adaptability to both besotted and well - drained soils . Goldenrod is the state peak of Kentucky , and Solidago gigantea is the state bloom of Nebraska .
Historically , Goldenrod , includingSolidago gigantea , has been meaning for both its medicative and ecological roles . Indigenous citizenry used it for intervention cast from wound healing to urinary upset . European settlers also adopted its use , with goldenrod becoming a part of herbal medicine in Europe . However , it has sometimes been unfairly blamed for causing hay fever , a misconception since its pollen is too punishing to be wind - diffuse , unlike ragweed which blooms at the same fourth dimension . In terms of ecology , goldenrod are vital for pollinators , especially in late summer and early fall when fewer plants are in bloom . They ’ve also been celebrate in art and folklore , symbolizing good health and prosperity . In modern landscape , Solidago giganteais valued for its ornamental appeal and for pull in butterfly and bee .
Giant Goldenrod is well - conform to USDA Hardiness geographical zone 3 through 8 , speculate its tolerance for a broad chain of mountains of climates , from the cold wintertime of the northerly states to the warmer conditions of the South . Within these zone , it produce undecomposed in full Lord’s Day to fond shade , require moist soil but also prove resiliency in drouth conditions once established . Its adaptability to various soil types , admit those that are periodically flooded , makes it a versatile plant life for both naturalistic and managed landscapes , contributing to both biodiversity and aesthetical appeal in the latter part of the growing season .
Goldenrod (Solidago gigantea): Characteristics
Goldenrod (Solidago gigantea): Cultivation
Site Selection
Choose a locating with full sun to fond subtlety . Goldenrod performs best with at least 6 hour of direct sunlight but can tolerate some specter , particularly in hotter climate .
Soil Preparation
Prefers moist , well - drained soil but is adaptable to a reach of soil types , from sandy to remains . check good drain to prevent root rot , though it can deal wetter conditions than many plants .
Planting
works in spring or fall . Space works about 2 to 3 ft asunder to allow for spread , as Goldenrod can become quite thick . Dig a hole doubly as encompassing as the ancestor ball , insure the root pate is level with the dirt open .
Watering
Water on a regular basis until establish , particularly if planting in fountain . Once settled , it ’s drouth - tolerant but benefits from occasional lachrymation during dry spells , especially in summertime .
mulch
Use mulch to hold filth wet , reduce weed competition , and regulate grime temperature . Keep mulch off from the plant ’s base to avoid moisture buildup that could go to decompose .
Fertilization
fertilise meagrely or not at all since Goldenrod thrives in comparatively poor land . If land is very inadequate , a promiscuous covering of a balanced , slow - release plant food in other leaping can support ontogeny .
Pruning and Maintenance
Prune back after flower to tidy the garden and possibly encourage a 2nd bloom . take away drained or damaged bow in recent free fall or early spring . cut back in tardy winter can also facilitate manage spread in garden preferences .
Pest and Disease Management
Generally immune , but determine for aphids or leafage smear in overly damp condition . Good air circulation and avoid overhead watering can prevent most outcome .
extension
Easily disseminate by part in spring or fall . Seeds can also be collected and sow in fall or stratified over winter for spring planting , though segmentation is more commonly used for maintaining desired trait .
Winter Care
In its hardiness geographical zone , no particular wintertime care is needed as it ’s quite audacious . However , in insensate areas , a light mulch can protect the crown from utmost cold . Leave seed heads for wintertime interest and to provide intellectual nourishment for birds .
