Rough Goldenrod (Solidago rugosa) lights up the garden with masses of warm golden-yellow blooms from late summer into fall. Its rough, hairy leaves and stems give it a distinctive texture, while upright flower spikes reach about 3 to 5 feet tall, adding bold vertical color. This deer-resistant, drought-tolerant perennial invites bees, butterflies, and songbirds, making it a top choice for biodiversity in naturalized or cottage-style landscapes. Its bright flowers and resilient nature set it apart from other late-season bloomers, providing extended interest when many plants have faded.
This North American native thrives in full sun or partial shade, tolerating a variety of soils from average garden loam to sandy or rocky substrates. Once established, Rough Goldenrod returns reliably each year with minimal care, forming attractive clumps that can be used as focal points or combined in mass plantings. Its flower clusters create a pollinator haven, while the seeds feed finches, sparrows, and other birds. Ideal for rain gardens, wildflower meadows, or as part of a bold border, this low-maintenance plant brings color and wildlife to your yard with ease.
Rough Goldenrod Care
Plant Rough Goldenrod in full sun for best blooms, though it tolerates dappled shade. Provide well-draining soil with moderate moisture levels—this species adapts to both occasionally dry and moist sites. Water consistently during the first season to help roots establish, then allow rainfall to supply most of its needs. Fertilizer is seldom necessary, but a light application of a balanced blend in early spring can support robust growth. If the plant flops in rich soil, consider staking or a slight cutback in early summer to encourage sturdier stems.
Pruning typically involves deadheading or removing spent flowers to tidy the appearance and potentially reduce self-seeding. In fall, leaving some seed heads can provide winter interest and feed birds, though you can cut back old stems if preferred. In cold climates, mulch around the base to protect roots from extreme temperatures. If growing in containers, refresh the potting mix every couple of years, and consider moving the container to a sheltered spot over winter.
Rough Goldenrod Spacing
When creating a hedge or mass planting, space plants about 18 to 24 inches apart for a lush, seamless display. Closer spacing may work for smaller beds or informal groupings, but ensure adequate airflow to prevent fungal issues. If planting in containers, choose one at least 12 inches wide and deep, giving the roots enough room to spread and remain healthy.
- SKU:
- 1231020840-pc
Container Sizes
Please Note: The pictures below are to give a general representation of the different container sizes. The actual size/ages of plants are estimates and will vary based on; type of plant, time of year, last pruning & many other factors.
For more detailed information, please click here.
Plant Addicts Guarantee (Included On All Plant Orders)
Plant Addicts always guarantees your plant(s) will arrive happy & healthy. However, plant(s) are being shipped through the mail & sometimes accidents happen. If the plant is dead, has dried out roots or the incorrect item was shipped, just notify Plant Addicts within 3 days upon delivery. We may ask for pictures but will try to make it as easy as possible for you. Please note, plant(s) with damaged branches or wilted leaves will not qualify for this guarantee. Plants are very resilient and will rebound quickly when cared for correctly.
For more information on how to care for your new plants, please click on our guide below.
Guide: How to Care for Your New Plant(s)
Plant Addicts Warranty - 1 Year (Extra Purchase Required)
We encourage all plant lovers to purchase the Plant Addicts Warranty, whether you're a new gardener or an expert. There are many variables outside of anyone's control that can cause a plant to die. Hungry animals, drought, poor soil conditions, over watering, diseases & pests are all good examples of what can cause plants to die. The Plant Addicts Warranty is a 1 year warranty protecting you from all of the unknowns and will replace your plant if something were to happen to it.
The warranty is purchased on a per plant basis and must be purchased at the same time as the plant(s). We will cover 100% of the price of the plant, but the warranty does not cover shipping costs. SImply let us know if your plant has died within 1 year of receiving it and we will get you a new one shipped out as soon as possible (depending on the time of the year and availability). We may ask for photos for documentation purposes, but we try to make the process as easy as possible.
For more information, please click on our page below.
Plant Shipping
Below are some factors we consider when determining when to ship the plants depending on the timing of the order.
Winter to Early Spring
We ship only when it's warm enough to plant in your growing zone.
Sometimes plants aren't completely ready to sell and ship in early spring. We will wait until the plants are ready before shipping so you don't get a subpar product.
For Southern plants we will be able to ship much earlier than plants coming from our northern nursery.
Summer
If there is extreme heat we may delay shipping for a week or several weeks.
We review what areas the plants are traveling through as well as your location.
Fall into Winter
We’ll ship plants out all the way up to the end of the fall planting season!
Winter
Get your order in early to reserve your plants for Spring planting!
Once your plant is shipped you’ll receive an automated email with tracking information.
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Planter Shipping
Standard Colors: 2-3 business days
Special Order Colors: 8 weeks - this is due to the planter being custom made with the color(s) of your choice
Please Note: On special orders there can not be any cancellations