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Description
Solidago Flexicaulis, commonly known as zigzag goldenrod, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in various regions from Quebec to Georgia, and from the east coast to the Midwest. This plant can grow up to 2-4 feet tall and can spread up to 2-3 feet wide. It blooms from August to October, producing yellow flowers that are arranged in panicles at the top of the stem. The stem of this plant is smooth and typically green, but can sometimes have a reddish tint.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Solidago |
Appearance
The zigzag goldenrod has lanceolate leaves that are dark green and hairless. The leaves are 3-6 inches long and 1 inch wide, with serrated edges. The stem of this plant is typically green but can sometimes have a reddish tint. The stem is smooth and produces yellow flowers that are arranged in panicles at the top of the stem. The flowers bloom from August to October and are about 1/8 inch in diameter. The zigzag goldenrod can grow up to 2-4 feet tall and can spread up to 2-3 feet wide.
Care Guide
The zigzag goldenrod requires minimal care and maintenance. Here are some tips to help you care for your plant:
- Water: Water your plant regularly, making sure not to overwater it. This plant prefers moist soil but can tolerate some dryness.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your plant with a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring.
- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The zigzag goldenrod prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant can grow in hardiness zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The zigzag goldenrod is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by the following:
- Aphids: These small insects can cause damage to the leaves and stems of the plant.
- Leaf Spot: This disease causes brown spots to appear on the leaves of the plant.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease causes a white powdery substance to appear on the leaves of the plant.
Habitat
The zigzag goldenrod is native to North America and can be found in various regions from Quebec to Georgia, and from the east coast to the Midwest. It prefers moist soil and can often be found in wetlands, meadows, and along streams and rivers.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the zigzag goldenrod an invasive species?
A: No, the zigzag goldenrod is not considered an invasive species.
Q: Can the zigzag goldenrod be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the zigzag goldenrod can be grown in a container as long as it is provided with adequate soil, water, and sunlight.
Q: Can the zigzag goldenrod be propagated by cuttings?
A: Yes, the zigzag goldenrod can be propagated by cuttings taken in the spring.
Q: Can the zigzag goldenrod be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, the zigzag goldenrod has been traditionally used for its medicinal properties, including as a diuretic and for treating kidney stones.
Related Plants
- Solidago canadensis
- Solidago gigantea
- Solidago juncea
- Solidago nemoralis
References
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=sofl2
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/solidago_flexicaulis.shtml
- https://www.nps.gov/plants/pubs/chesapeake/plant/256.htm
