Solidago × luteus 'Lemore'
ABOUT
Solidago × luteus 'Lemore', commonly known as the hybrid goldenrod 'Lemore', is a plant that boasts a striking appearance, marked by its vibrant foliage and conspicuous flower heads. The leaves of the 'Lemore' goldenrod are generally lance-shaped, presenting a bright green color that brings freshness and vivacity to the overall aesthetic of the plant. The foliage may form a cluster, creating a lush, full appearance that serves as an attractive backdrop for the flower spikes. The real show-stoppers of this plant are its flower spikes, which are dense, elongated clusters of small, yellow flowers that burst into bloom typically in late summer or early fall. These flower clusters radiate with a golden hue, creating a warm and inviting display that can attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to the garden. Each individual flower is tiny and compact, contributing to the fluffy, feathery look of the overall flower spike. Together, the bright green leaves and glowing yellow flowers provide a dramatic contrast and can lend a sunny, cheerful look to any setting where the 'Lemore' goldenrod is planted. Despite being a hybrid, this goldenrod retains the characteristic hardiness and resilience that goldenrods are known for, allowing it to bring an enduring splash of color to the landscape.
About this plant
- Names
Family
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Lemore Goldenrod, Hybrid Goldenrod
Common names
Solidago × luteus 'Lemore'.
- Toxicity
To humans
Solidago, commonly known as goldenrod, is generally not considered toxic to humans. However, as with any plant, individual allergies or sensitivities may exist. If a person does have an allergic reaction after ingesting or handling goldenrod, they may experience symptoms such as skin irritation or gastrointestinal discomfort. Always consult a medical professional if you suspect poisoning or an allergic reaction.
To pets
Goldenrod is not typically toxic to pets. It is not listed among the plants commonly known to be poisonous to pets such as dogs and cats. Nevertheless, ingestion of plant material may cause mild gastrointestinal upset in some animals due to the novelty of the material and their specific dietary tolerances. If you notice your pet displaying symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea after consuming goldenrod, it is wise to consult your veterinarian.
- Characteristics
Life cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
3-4 feet (0.91-1.22 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.61-0.91 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
Varies
Native area
Varies
Benefits
- General Benefits
- Attracts pollinators: Solidago, commonly known as goldenrod, is known to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects which are vital for pollination.
- Easy to care for: Lemore is a hardy plant that can thrive in a variety of soil conditions and doesn't require a lot of maintenance.
- Drought tolerance: Once established, this hybrid goldenrod can withstand periods of drought, making it suitable for xeriscaping.
- Visual appeal: With its bright yellow flowers, Lemore adds vibrant color to gardens and landscapes from late summer into fall.
- Erosion control: Goldenrod's root system helps to stabilize soil, preventing erosion.
- Wildlife habitat: The plant provides cover and food for various wildlife species, especially during the cooler months when other resources are scarce.
- Late-season nectar source: As a late bloomer, it offers a vital nectar source for pollinators when other plants have finished flowering.
- Medical Properties
This plant is not used for medical purposes.
- Air-purifying Qualities
This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
- Other Uses
- Decorative dried arrangements: The stems and flowers of the Solidago ‘Lemore’ remain intact when dried, providing an enduring and natural decor element for indoor arrangements.
- Eco-dyeing fabric: The flowers and leaves can be used to naturally dye textiles, offering a range of yellow and green hues.
- Photography prop: The vibrant yellow blooms provide an excellent subject or backdrop for nature photography and art projects.
- Garden borders: When planted in mass, Solidago ‘Lemore’ can serve as a bright, eye-catching border in garden designs.
- Companion planting: This plant can be used in companion planting to attract beneficial insects that help control garden pests.
- Floral crafts: The flexible stems and bright flowers are great for creating wreaths, garlands, or other floral craft projects.
- Teaching tool: Botany and ecology educators can use the Solidago ‘Lemore’ to teach about plant hybridization and pollination strategies.
- Wildlife habitat: The plant serves as a food source for various wildlife, such as birds that feed on the seeds in the winter months.
- Themed gardens: Solidago ‘Lemore’ can be part of a 'gold' or 'autumn' themed garden to emphasize seasonal colors.
- Soil erosion control: The root systems help to stabilize soil and prevent erosion, making it useful in areas susceptible to soil loss.
Interesting Facts
- Feng Shui
The Goldenrod is not used in Feng Shui practice.
- Zodiac Sign Compitability
The Goldenrod is not used in astrology practice.
- Plant Symbolism
- Good Fortune: The goldenrod, a close relative to Solidago × luteus 'Lemore', often symbolizes good luck and fortune, indicative of its bright yellow flowering that evokes the color of gold and prosperity.
- Encouragement and Growth: Given its characteristic to thrive in tough conditions, goldenrod represents encouragement and personal growth, reflecting the idea of overcoming challenges.
- Healing: Historically, goldenrods have been used in folk medicine, lending them a symbolic meaning of healing and good health.
- Wealth: The rich golden hue is sometimes associated with wealth, not only in financial terms but also as a wealth of knowledge or an abundant harvest.
- Water
For Solidago, commonly known as the Goldenrod, it is best to water deeply once a week, providing about 1 to 1.5 inches of water each time, which equals approximately 0.62 gallons per square foot per week. It's important to allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, as consistently wet soil can lead to root rot. During the hotter, dryer periods, you might need to water twice a week while in cooler, wetter seasons, watering might be reduced. Water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases.
- Light
Goldenrods thrive in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. For optimal growth and flowering, place Solidago 'Lemore' in a spot where it will receive at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Avoid deep shade locations as this will reduce its vigor and flowering capability.
- Temperature
Goldenrods prefer moderate temperatures and will thrive best when the daytime temperature is between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit, but they can tolerate a range from 40 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. They are cold-hardy and can survive winter temperatures as low as 0 degrees Fahrenheit, making them suitable for many climates.
- Pruning
Prune Goldenrods in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Cutting the plants back by one-third can promote bushier growth and more plentiful blooms. Deadhead spent flowers during the blooming season to encourage more blossoms and prevent unwanted self-seeding.
- Cleaning
As needed
- Soil
The best soil mix for Hybrid Goldenrod 'Lemore' is well-draining, loamy or sandy soil enriched with organic matter. A balanced pH in the range of 5.5 to 7.0 is suitable for optimal growth.
- Repotting
Hybrid Goldenrod 'Lemore' does not require frequent repotting; it can be repotted every 2 to 3 years or as needed when it outgrows its pot or the soil becomes depleted.
- Humidity & Misting
Hybrid Goldenrod 'Lemore' is adaptable to a wide range of humidity conditions and does well in average ambient humidity found in most outdoor settings.
- Suitable locations
Indoor
Place in bright, indirect light and water moderately.
Outdoor
Full sun to partial shade; well-drained soil; water as needed.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
- Life cycle
Solidago × luteus 'Lemore', commonly known as the hybrid goldenrod 'Lemore', begins its life cycle as a seed, typically sown in the spring when the soil has warmed. After germination, the seedling establishes itself, developing a root system and foliage through vegetative growth during the spring and summer. As a perennial, it enters a period of dormancy in the fall, when above-ground growth dies back and the plant conserves energy in its root system. In subsequent years, it reemerges from the roots in spring, growing more vigorous each season as the plant matures. The plant reaches the flowering stage in late summer or early fall, producing upright spikes of small, yellow flowers that attract pollinators and subsequently produce seeds. After seeding, the plant once again enters dormancy, thereby completing its annual cycle.
- Propogation
Propogation time
Late summer to early fall
Solidago × luteus 'Lemore', commonly known as the Goldenrod 'Lemore', is typically propagated by division, a straightforward process that allows gardeners to create new plants. This method is best carried out in the spring or early fall when the plant is not in peak bloom. To propagate by division, you carefully dig up the plant, ensuring a large root ball is attached, and then gently separate it into smaller sections by hand or with the use of a sharp knife. Each section should have a healthy portion of roots and a few shoots. These new divisions can then be immediately replanted into well-prepared soil, spaced about 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 centimeters) apart to allow for ample growth room. Proper watering following replanting is crucial for establishment.