Goldenrod Solidago 'Goldenmosa'
ABOUT
The plant known as Goldenrod 'Goldenmosa' is a vibrant and striking perennial that features a profusion of bright yellow flowers. These flowers are clustered tightly in plume-like formations, creating an effervescent display that can catch the eye from a distance. The individual blooms are small and daisy-like with a golden yellow hue, giving the plant an overall fluffy appearance when viewed en masse. This Goldenrod's foliage is comprised of lance-shaped leaves, which are deep green and can give the plant a lush, dense texture. The leaves are abundant and may sometimes have a slightly toothed margin, adding a subtle texture to the visual aesthetic of the plant. Stems are typically upright, and they hold the flower clusters aloft, presenting them prominently as if reaching towards the light. 'Goldenmosa' is often noted for its inviting, bushy form which makes it not only a beautiful plant in gardens but also an important habitat for various pollinators. Bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects are commonly attracted to its flowers, creating a lively and dynamic ecosystem around the plant. The blossoming period of 'Goldenmosa' contributes to the lively atmosphere of a garden, as the yellow plumes stand out among other plants, offering a bright counterpoint to the greens and other colors typically found in a plant border or wildflower setting.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Goldenmosa Goldenrod, Showy Goldenrod
Common names
Solidago 'Goldenmosa'
ToxicityTo humans
Goldenrod is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It is often used in traditional medicine and is not known for causing serious poisoning or toxic reactions when touched or ingested in moderate amounts. However, some individuals may experience allergic reactions due to its pollen.
To pets
Goldenrod is also typically safe for pets and is not known to be poisonous to them. It should not cause serious illness if ingested by animals such as dogs or cats. However, as with any non-food plant material, ingestion in large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
2-3 feet (60-91 cm)
Spread
2-4 feet (60-122 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4-9
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators: Solidago 'Goldenmosa', commonly known as Goldenrod, is known for attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to the garden, which is essential for the pollination of many plants.
- Landscape improvement: Goldenrod adds vibrant yellow color to gardens and landscapes, enhancing visual appeal during its blooming season.
- Easy to grow: Goldenrod is a hardy perennial that is tolerant of a variety of soil conditions and can thrive with minimal care, making it suitable for novice gardeners.
- Drought-tolerant: Once established, Goldenrod is drought-tolerant, making it a good choice for areas with water restrictions or for xeriscaping.
- Erosion control: Goldenrod's extensive root system helps to stabilize soil, making it a valuable plant for erosion control on slopes and in areas prone to soil degradation.
- Wildlife habitat: Goldenrod provides shelter and breeding places for small animals and insects, contributing to the biodiversity of the area.
- Seasonal interest: With its late summer to fall blooming period, Goldenrod offers aesthetic interest during a time when many other plants have finished flowering.
- Companion planting: Goldenrod can be used in companion planting to enhance the growth and health of nearby plants.
- Resistant to pests & diseases: Generally, Goldenrod is resistant to many pests and diseases, reducing the need for chemical interventions in garden management.
- Cultural significance: Goldenrod is a symbol of good fortune and is used in various cultural traditions for its aesthetic qualities.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Solidago 'Goldenmosa', commonly known as Goldenrod, is traditionally thought to possess anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation.
- Diuretic: Goldenrod is often cited as having diuretic effects, which can promote the increase of urine flow.
- Antifungal: Some compounds in Goldenrod have been studied for their potential antifungal activity.
- Antioxidant: Goldenrod may contain antioxidants, which can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Solidago 'Goldenmosa', commonly known as Goldenrod, can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, providing a range of colors from bright yellows to deep gold.
- The plant's stems can be woven into intricate patterns to create eco-friendly baskets and other forms of sustainable crafts.
- Goldenrod flowers provide a source of nectar for bees and are beneficial for supporting local bee populations and enhancing pollination in gardens.
- The dried flowers and stems can be used in floral arrangements and potpourri for their longevity and vibrant color.
- Goldenrod can be planted to help control erosion on slopes and banks as their root systems help to hold soil in place.
- It can serve as a natural lawn alternative in wildflower meadows, requiring less maintenance and providing habitat for wildlife.
- Goldenrod has been traditionally used in the practice of making botanical inks and was used by certain Native American tribes for this purpose.
- The seeds of goldenrod can be used as a food source for birds, especially in the fall and winter months when other food is scarce.
- When included in mixed perennial borders, goldenrod can help deter herbivory of other plants due to their bitter taste.
- The plant can act as a natural indicator of soil health, as they tend to thrive in areas with rich, well-drained soil.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Goldenrod is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Goldenrod is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Healing: Solidago, commonly known as Goldenrod, is often associated with healing due to its traditional use in herbal medicine to treat various ailments.
- Good Fortune: Goldenrod is considered a symbol of good luck, and planting it around a home is thought to bring prosperity and fortune.
- Encouragement and Growth: The vibrant yellow flowers of the Goldenrod symbolize encouragement and growth, making it a perfect gift for those facing new challenges or needing a morale boost.
- Protection: In folklore, Goldenrod is believed to offer protection against negative energies, and it is sometimes used in rituals for this purpose.
WaterGoldenrod, the common name for Solidago 'Goldenmosa', prefers consistent moisture but well-draining soil. During the growing season, water regularly, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Typically, watering once a week with about one to one and a half gallons of water should suffice, depending on the climate and weather conditions. During periods of drought or extreme heat, increase watering frequency to twice a week. Reduce watering in the fall as the plant prepares for dormancy, and throughout winter, water sparingly only if the soil becomes very dry.
LightGoldenrod thrives in full sunlight to partial shade. For optimal growth and blooming, plant it in a location where it will receive at least six hours of direct sunlight a day. While it can tolerate some shade, too much will result in fewer blooms and a leggier plant. The best spot will be open and sunny with some afternoon shade in hotter climates to prevent scorching.
TemperatureGoldenrod is a hardy plant that can withstand a wide range of temperatures. It performs best in environments where temperatures range from 60°F to 75°F. Goldenrod can survive minimum temperatures down to around -30°F, and maximum temperatures well into the 90s°F, although at the hotter end of the scale, additional watering may be necessary to keep the plant from wilting.
PruningPruning goldenrod can help encourage bushier growth and prevent the plant from becoming too leggy. Cut back the plant in late winter or early spring, removing any dead or damaged stems and shaping the plant as desired. Pruning is also beneficial after flowering has finished in the fall to tidy up the plant and prepare it for the next growing season. Generally, pruning once a year is sufficient.
CleaningAs needed
SoilGoldenrod (Solidago 'Goldenmosa') thrives best in a well-draining soil mix with ample organic matter. The ideal soil pH ranges from slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5 to 7.0). A mix of garden soil, compost, and a small amount of sand or perlite to improve drainage will provide the best environment for goldenrod.
RepottingGoldenrod (Solidago 'Goldenmosa') does not commonly require frequent repotting as it is generally grown as a perennial outdoor plant. Repotting can be done every 2-3 years to refresh the soil, or if you are growing it in containers and the plant has outgrown its pot.
Humidity & MistingGoldenrod (Solidago 'Goldenmosa') is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does not require high humidity to thrive, making it quite adaptable to typical outdoor conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light and well-draining soil for indoor goldenrod.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade, in well-draining soil, goldenrod thrives.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleSolidago 'Goldenmosa', commonly known as Goldenrod, begins its life as a seed which germinates in the spring when soil temperatures warm. The seedling emerges and establishes a root system before developing a rosette of leaves at ground level. As it matures, the plant sends up one or more stems that elongate and produce lance-shaped to ovate leaves in alternation. During late summer and early fall, Goldenrod blooms with showy, bright yellow flower clusters that attract a variety of pollinators. After pollination, flowers develop into small seeds that are dispersed by wind or animals. During winter, the aboveground parts of the plant die back, but the perennial root system survives and enables new growth in the subsequent spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating the Solidago, commonly known as Goldenrod 'Goldenmosa', is by division. This process is best done in the spring as the plants are emerging from dormancy. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the plant, making sure to get as much of the root system as possible. Gently shake or rinse off loose soil and then separate the plant into smaller clumps, ensuring that each section has a portion of the roots attached. These clumps can then be replanted at the same depth they were growing before, spaced about 18 to 24 inches (approximately 45 to 60 cm) apart to allow for proper growth. This method encourages quicker establishment and will produce flowering plants in less time than seed propagation.
