PHOTO: Deborah Gruca
plant pick
‘Fireworks’ goldenrod Solidago rugosa
Talk about well-named plants. The arching, brilliant yellow flowers of ‘Fireworks’ goldenrod look just like their namesake. In late August to September the 18-in.-long spikes of fuzzy gold blooms launch out in all directions and last for several weeks. Set in motion by the slightest breeze, the late-season flowers attract both butterflies and human admirers.
Because it’s easy to grow, ‘Fireworks’ is perfect for the low-maintenance border. When you grow the plant in full sun and average soil, you’ll find there’s no need to stake it. If you have it in part sun or rich soil, it may flop a bit. In that case, cut the stems back by about half in early summer for a more compact habit. And give it consistent moisture, especially when it’s young, for the best-looking foliage and flowers.
TYPE Perennial BLOOM Yellow flowers in fall LIGHT Full sun SOIL Moist, well-drained PESTS Occasionally powdery mildew SIZE 2 to 3 ft. tall and wide HARDINESS Cold: USDA zones 4 to 9, Heat: AHS zones 9 to 1
See tons of other great perennials — plus cool grasses — in Bloom’s Best Perennials and Grasses at right!
