Fireworks Goldenrod Common Name: Fireworks Goldenrod Botanical Name: Solidago rugosa ‘Fireworks’ Fireworks Goldenrod Plant family: Asteraceae Location: Art Trail Growing zone: 4-9 Height: 3-4 ft. Spread: 2-3 ft. Bloom time: September, October Bloom description: Brilliant yellow flowers appear on long, arching panicles that resemble the fading trails of fireworks (hence the cultivar name). Leaf type: Green, serrated leaves adorn the tall, erect stems beginning in spring and persist throughout the fall. They even persist through winter as rosettes that stay at soil level. Garden uses: This native perennial has long been mistaken as the culprit of causing hay fever. However, its blooms are pollinated by insects, so the pollen is actually too heavy to be dispersed by wind. The real culprits are plants with light pollen that is easily dispersed by wind, such as grasses, rag weed, and some trees. This is a must-have for late color in the garden. Wildlife benefits: Be prepared to see lots of insect pollinators visiting this plant. In fact, Monarch butterflies frequent this reliable native perennial on their fall migration route.
