Solidago rugosa

Common Names

Rough-Stemmed Goldenrod, Wrinkle-Leaf Goldenrod, Wrinkleleaf Goldenrod, Rough-Leaf Goldenrod, Roughleaf Goldenrod, Rough Goldenrod

Summary

Solidago rugosa is a native eastern North American perennial, typically 2–6 ft tall, forming clumps via creeping rhizomes with rough, wrinkled leaves on arching stems. It bears panicles of small yellow flowers from late summer into fall and thrives in full sun to light shade on moist to wet, well-drained soils; hardy in USDA zones 4–8. It attracts bees and butterflies and provides seeds for birds, while the plant can self-seed and form colonies but is not generally invasive.

Propagation is by division of basal rosettes (best in late winter) or by sowing fresh seeds, though germination is often poor, so thick seeding is recommended; the cultivar 'Fireworks' offers a more compact, vigorous option in native, rain, and pollinator gardens. Management includes deadheading spent flowers to reduce self-seeding and dividing every few years to maintain vigor; occasional rust or powdery mildew may occur; deer-resistant; suitable for borders, cottage gardens, rain gardens, and wildlife-friendly landscapes while supporting pollinators and birds.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

3-5 feet

Spread

1.5-2.5 feet

Hardiness Zones

Zones 4-8

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally full Sun; tolerates partial sun to partial shade.

Soil Type

Well-drained loamy soil that is slightly acidic and moist to wet.

Soil Drainage

Well-drained soil; keep moderately moist but not waterlogged.

Soil pH

6.0-7.0, Slightly acidic to neutral

Bloom Color

Yellow

Bloom Time

Summer to Fall

Foliage Color

Green

Fall Foliage Color

Green, Yellow

Leaf Lifecycle

Deciduous

Growth Rate

Fast

Seasons of Interest

Summer and Fall

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Cuttings, Division

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts bees, butterflies, other pollinators, and birds