Fritzflohrreynolds, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Zigzag Goldenrod, also known as Solidago flexicaulis, is distinguished by its toothed, broad-ovate leaves and the shape of its stem. The name comes from the shape of the stem and the way it zigzags between the nodes. It is a rhizomatous perennial native to eastern North America’s rich woods and thickets. The zigzag goldenrod is a sunflower family perennial that blooms in yellow clusters from July to October.
This lovely, clump-forming goldenrod will not take over your yard. It will brighten up the shadiest area of your garden in late summer and early fall.
Zigzag Goldenrod is an Important Plant for many Pollinators
It is an important plant for many pollinators. Butterflies, honey bees, swamp sparrow pollinators, butterflies, and caterpillars from various moth species are drawn to the zigzag goldenrod. It tolerates drought well and makes an excellent cut flower. It’s a great addition to rock gardens and one of the season’s last pollinators. Happily, this goldenrod is deer and rabbit resistant.
Goldenrods are commonly mistaken for causing hayfever, which is actually caused by windborne pollen from other plants, such as ragweed. It also does not induce seasonal allergies, as some incorrectly claim, because it is not wind-pollinated.
Where to Plant
Its natural habitat includes open deciduous woods, rocky woods, floodplain forest edges, wooded stream banks, limestone glade edges, and cliffs. It is suitable for cottage gardens, low-maintenance plantings, meadows, perennial borders, roadside plantings, and restoration projects. This plant adds fall colour to any garden.
Companion Plants
Aster cordifolius, Chasmanthium latifolium, Chrysogonum virginianum, Eupatorium colestinum, Heliopsis helianthoides, and Amsonia hubrichtii are all good companion plants.
Stems and Roots
The stems are zigzagged and slender green. Its extensive rhizomatous roots make it an excellent plant for soil stability.
Seeds and Propagation
The seeds are small and brown and are typically scattered by wind. The seeds are beneficial to swamp sparrows and pine siskins.
Solidago flexicaulis propagates by seed. Plant in dry, sandy, or gravelly woodland soil. You can also propagate through division in the spring. Rhizomes spread it moderately.
Propagating Solidago flexicaulis
Propogate by either seeding or root division. This plant will spread on its own. Goldenrod can be considered aggressive and is therefore not recommended for small gardens.
Zigzag goldenrod full plant.
Caring for Zigzag Goldenrod
Solidago flexicaulis is an easy-to-grow woodland species that prefers sun-dappled part shade but will also grow in full shade. Established plants can tolerate dry soils. Plants can be grown from seed, and they can also self-seed in the garden. Plants can spread through rhizomes.
Although there are no serious disease or insect problems, keep an eye out for powdery mildew and leaf spot.
Other Goldenrods
Discover the differences among many these goldenrods.
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