Zigzag Goldenrod

(Solidago flexicaulis)

Zigzag Goldenrod (Solidago flexicaulis)

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Solidago flexicaulis Native Range
Native Range
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Climate Requirements

• Precipitation 31" - 48"
• High Temp. 76°F - 85°F
• Low Temp. 4°F - 20°F

Summary

Solidago flexicaulis, commonly known as Zigzag Goldenrod, is a deciduous perennial herb native to rich, moist, deciduous forests and forest edges in the Eastern United States. It is particularly adapted to the dappled sunlight of woodland understories. The plant earns its common name from its characteristic stem, which zigs and zags back and forth, changing direction at each node where the leaves attach. Zigzag Goldenrod typically grows to a height of 1.5 to 3 feet (0.5 to 1 meter) and spreads 1 to 2 feet (0.3 to 0.6 meters) wide. It features broad, almost round leaves with elongated tips and large teeth along the edges. From late summer to early fall, it produces clusters of small, bright yellow flower heads, with some located at the stem’s end and others nestled in the leaf axils, which can number up to 250 heads per plant.

Zigzag Goldenrod is valued for its shade tolerance and the bright splash of color it adds to woodland gardens and naturalized areas with its showy yellow flowers. It is often used in border plantings, native plant gardens, and as a ground cover. This species is relatively low-maintenance and thrives in soils with medium drainage. It prefers part shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. While generally pest-free, it can occasionally suffer from rust and mildew. Zigzag Goldenrod is also beneficial to pollinators, attracting bees and butterflies to the garden.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 2-3 feet
  • Width: 1-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Fire Resistant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Rich, moist, deciduous forests and forest edges in the Eastern United States

Other Names

Common Names: Zig-Zag Goldenrod, Broadleaf Goldenrod, Broadleaved Goldenrod, Bredbladigt Gullris

Scientific Names: Solidago flexicaulis, Solidago latifolia, Solidago flexicaulis var. ciliata, Solidago flexicaulis var. latifolia, Aster latifolius, Doria flexicaulis, Solidago flexicaulis f. flexicaulis, Solidago flexicaulis f. subincisa, Solidago flexicaulis var. flexicaulis

GBIF Accepted Name: Solidago flexicaulis L.