Solidago flexicaulis (Zigzag Goldenrod)

One of the very few goldenrods that thrives and blooms well in shade, zigzag goldenrod is confirmed deer resistant and offers a high-value nectar source for migrating monarch butterflies - while being specifically favored by the federally endangered Rusty Patched Bumble Bee, a genuinely significant conservation detail.

Species Overview

Solidago flexicaulis, or zigzag goldenrod, is a clumping woodland perennial native to eastern and central North America, growing 2 to 4 feet tall with distinctively zigzagging stems between the nodes. Clusters of small, bright yellow flowers appear in the upper leaf axils and stem ends from midsummer into fall, above broad, sharply-toothed, ovate leaves.

Application

• Shaded woodland garden and understory plantings - one of the few shade-blooming goldenrods
• Habitat for the federally endangered Rusty Patched Bumble Bee
• High-value monarch butterfly migration nectar source
• Erosion control on shaded slopes - semi-evergreen basal foliage

Growing Conditions / Specification Data

• Light: Part Shade (tolerates full sun to full shade)
• Soil/Moisture Tolerance: Moist, well-drained, average soils; tolerates occasional dry conditions and clay or rocky soils
• Drought Tolerance: Moderate
• Flood Tolerance: Low - A shade-tolerant woodland goldenrod, atypical for the genus; not documented as flood tolerant.
• Plant Type: Forb
• Mature Height: 2-4 ft.
• Fall Color: Insignificant/None
• Bloom Color / Period: Yellow; August-October
• Wetland Indicator Status: NI (No Indicator) - see flags
• Native Range: Northeast/Mid-Atlantic (full list)
• Hydrology: Dry-Mesic
• Root Depth: Moderate (12-24 in.)
• Salinity Tolerance: Low
• Growth Rate: Moderate
• Shade Tolerance: Tolerant - one of the few shade-tolerant goldenrods
• Growth Habit: Spreading - rhizomatous
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-8
• Deer Resistance: Yes (Rarely Damaged)
• Pollinator Value: Supports bees, supports butterflies

Planting Guidance

• IMPORTANT: specifically favored by the federally endangered Rusty Patched Bumble Bee (Bombus affinis) - a meaningful conservation consideration for this species. Spreads gently by rhizome to form well-behaved patches; not considered aggressive or invasive.