Solidago rugosa 'Fireworks'
Goldenrod
DESCRIPTION
GoldenrodSolidago rugosa 'Fireworks'
At 3-4' tall, 'Fireworks' is more compact than most of the species and flowers more heavily. A lacy dome of golden flowers looks like exploding fireworks providing nectar and pollen for bees and butterflies in early fall.
BENEFITS
- Seeds relished by finches, juncos, sparrows and ruffed grouse
- Clump forming so it won't spread like some other species
- Migrating butterflies use the nectar to fuel their fall migration
- Bees rely on the pollen and nectar to build up winter stores
- Good deer resistance, non-allergenic cut flower
NATIVE INFO
Native Range
Fields, meadows and prairies; Newfoundland to Michigan south to Texas and Florida.
Map Credit: The Biota of North America
Map Key: Green (native), Teal (native, adventive), Blue (present), Yellow (present & rare), Red (extinct)
Interesting Facts
Each year, as the weather cools, some butterflies migrate to warmer climates. Cloudless sulphurs, mourning cloaks, question marks, long tailed skippers and monarchs can be found moving southward by the thousands. These travelers need loads of great nectar plants along the way to fuel their long journey,
GROWING TIPS
Grows best in a sunny, moist, well-drained site. This cultivar tolerates moister soils than many of the other goldenrods. Remove spent flower clusters to encourage additional bloom. Divide every 2-3 years to keep plantings vigorous.