Livin’ Life Like It’s Golden
This time of year is perhaps best known for the colors and hues of the seasonal change into autumn. The one that stands out the most, in my opinion, is the color of gold. There are numerous tree and shrub species whose leaves change a golden shade. However, for flower color, one need look no further than Solidago, more commonly called the goldenrods.
There are over 140 species of goldenrods, and all have small daisy-like flowers that are clustered together. It’s no surprise that they are in the daisy and aster family. They are also underappreciated in the garden, perhaps because they are often blamed for allergies this time of year. However, this is a misconception. Ragweed, which blooms at the same time as goldenrod, is actually the cause of fall seasonal allergies.
Of the many species of goldenrod, one often found in our area along the coast is seaside goldenrod or Solidago sempervirens. Butterflies and other pollinators flock to goldenrod, making it a perfect addition to the native pollinator garden. The honey produced by bees that collect its pollen is somewhat bitter, but there are those that love the taste.
The plant parts above ground are edible and have historically been used for medical purposes. A tea can be made from the leaves and flowers that acts as a diuretic and anti-inflammatory; Native Americans often brewed it as well. In fact, during the Boston Tea Party when tea was spilled into the Boston Harbor in an act of rebellion, the colonists made their own tea from goldenrod as a substitute, calling it Liberty Tea.
In addition, it has been said it can help with flushing out kidney stones. Goldenrod also has properties that treat tuberculosis, diabetes, and urinary tract infections. Sounds like a very special plant, doesn’t it?
Not only used as a medicine, goldenrod also has a colorful history in legend and lore. It was said that its stiff stems could be used as a divining rod to seek out gold and silver.
On a similar note, it was fabled that treasure could be found wherever goldenrod was growing. It was rumored that unexpected riches would come your way if goldenrod was growing next to your front door. Next year, I think I may place a container of goldenrod next to every door of the house. If anything comes my way, I’ll be sure to share.
Goldenrods are tough plants. They grow in a variety of conditions. Many are drought tolerant and can be grown on poor soils like the seaside goldenrod. Most prefer full sun conditions, but there is one that likes the shade of the woodland garden: blue-stemmed goldenrod.
Considered at home in the meadow, goldenrods bloom from July through October depending on species. They typically grow from about three feet up to five feet in height, depending on species. They can also be propagated easily by division, seeds, or even by cuttings. They are perfect for sharing as they tend to grow and spread quickly.
So, if you’re thinking about starting a pollinator garden, or a meadow garden, or even a container garden that includes fall-blooming plants, consider planting this wondrous, beneficial plant. You’ll be enjoying golden displays of color year after year, and hopefully, in the words of one my favorite signers, Jill Scott, “livin’ life like it’s golden.”
Happy September, and let’s garden together! ▼
Eric W. Wahl is Landscape Architect at Pennoni Associates, and President of the Delaware Native Plant Society.
Photo: Michael Barrick on Unsplash.com