Monday, October 24, 2011

SOLIDAGO

Although a few species are dotted in other temperate regions, this daisy family (Asteraceae) genus of around 100 specie of perennials is primarily North American. They form clumps of upright, sometimes branching stems, the upper half of which bear panicles of tiny golden yellow flowers; these have earned the plant the common name of goldenrod. The leaves may be lance-shaped, linear, or a pointed oval shape, and often have toothed edges. By the time flowering starts in late summer many of the lower leaves have withered somewhat. Native Americans used this lateflowering habit as a guide to when the corn would ripen. Solidago altissima is the state flower of Kentucky, and S.gigantea is the state flower of Nebraska.


CULTIVATION


Solidago plants are hardy and easily grown in full or half sun in any position with reasonably fertile, moit, well-drained soil. They will grow in poor soil and withstand drought but will not flower well or reach their maximum size with such conditions. Propagate by division, or from seed or basal cuttings. They may self-sow.


Top Tip


When selecting a Solidago plant for the garden, the named cultivars are preferable to the species because they are sturdier and less invasive.

No comments:

Post a Comment