PerennialsSolidago canadensis
Canada Goldenrod
Canada goldenrod is a robust perennial with plume-shaped, golden-yellow flower clusters that bloom from August to October. The plant spreads via rhizomes and forms impressive colonies. A valuable late-season nectar source for bees and butterflies.
Characteristics
- Sun
- Full sun
- Water
- Low
- Height
- 80–150 cm
- Spread
- 50–90 cm
- Hardiness zone
- 3–8
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Evergreen
- No
- Flower colors
- yellow
- Wildlife value
- bees, butterflies, birds
Bloom period
Care guide
Plant in full sun in virtually any soil type. Once established, the plant is highly drought-tolerant and requires little care. Control spreading by regularly removing root runners if the plant becomes too vigorous.
Pruning tips
Cut flower stems back to the ground after flowering, unless you wish to retain the seed heads as winter silhouettes. Remove remaining dead foliage in early spring.
Good companions
PerennialsEchinacea purpurea
Purple Coneflower
Purple Coneflower is a sturdy perennial with distinctive pink-purple petals surrounding an orange-brown cone. The flowers appear from July to September and are a magnet for butterflies and bees. In autumn and winter, the seed heads attract goldfinches and other seed-eating birds.
PerennialsRudbeckia fulgida
Black-eyed Susan
Black-eyed Susan blooms from July through October with radiant golden-yellow petals surrounding a dark brown center. The plant is virtually indestructible, spreads gradually, and suits large borders and prairie-style gardens. After flowering, the seed heads provide food for birds.
Ornamental grassesMiscanthus sinensis
Chinese Silver Grass
Chinese Silver Grass is a striking ornamental grass that adds structure to any garden with its tall plumes and gracefully arching leaves. Silvery-white plumes appear from August to October and catch the autumn and winter light beautifully. The dried grass remains attractive throughout winter.