Solidago rugosa (Wrinkleleaf Goldenrod)

An exceptional ecological anchor even among goldenrods, wrinkleleaf goldenrod is documented as a caterpillar host plant for 114 separate species of butterflies and moths in some regions - confirmed as a larval host for the Wavy-lined Emerald specifically, alongside the same ten named specialist bee species shared across the Solidago genus.

Species Overview

Solidago rugosa, commonly called wrinkleleaf or rough-leaved goldenrod, is a wide-ranging, rhizomatous perennial native to wet, low-lying areas across the eastern United States. Mostly unbranched, hairy, arching stems bear alternate leaves with deeply indented veins that give them a wrinkled texture, topped by bright yellow flower panicles from late summer through fall.

Application

• Wetland margin, swamp, and stream-bank restoration
• Exceptional caterpillar host habitat - 114 documented Lepidoptera species in some regions
• Late-season pollinator garden and cottage garden plantings
• Naturalized colonizing plantings on consistently moist sites

Growing Conditions / Specification Data

• Light: Full Sun to Part Shade
• Soil/Moisture Tolerance: Wet to consistently moist soils; sandy, loamy, or gravelly
• Plant Type: Forb
• Mature Height: 4-8 ft.
• Fall Color: Insignificant/None
• Bloom Color / Period: Yellow; August-November
• Wetland Indicator Status: FAC (Facultative)
• Native Range: Northeast/Mid-Atlantic (full list)
• Hydrology: Mesic-Moist
• Root Depth: Moderate (12-24 in.)
• Salinity Tolerance: Low
• Growth Rate: Rapid
• Drought Tolerance: Moderate
• Deer Resistance: Yes (Rarely Damaged) (genus (Solidago) listed on a formal landscape deer-resistance reference)
• Flood Tolerance: Moderate - Rated FAC (Facultative) on a formal wetland indicator reference - occurs in wetlands and non-wetlands with similar frequency.
• Shade Tolerance: Intermediate
• Growth Habit: Spreading - rhizomatous
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-8
• Pollinator Value: Larval host, supports bees, supports specialist/oligolectic bees, supports butterflies, supports moths

Planting Guidance

• Highly variable species with several subspecies and varieties that can be difficult to differentiate; spreads vigorously by both rhizome and seed - give ample room in naturalized settings.