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Description
Solidago Houghtonii, also known as Houghton’s goldenrod, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to North America. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and produces yellow flowers in late summer and early fall. This plant species was named after Douglass Houghton, a geologist and physician who discovered it in Michigan in the 1830s.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Solidago |
Appearance
Solidago Houghtonii can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It has simple, alternate leaves that are lanceolate and toothed. The stem of this plant is hairy and has multiple branches. The flowers are small and yellow, arranged in clusters at the top of the stem. The inflorescence of Solidago Houghtonii has a flat-topped shape and is about 6 inches wide.
Care Guide
Solidago Houghtonii is a hardy plant that requires little maintenance. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during dry spells. Solidago Houghtonii prefers moist soil but can tolerate drought.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Solidago Houghtonii prefers well-drained soil rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay and sandy soil.
- Sunlight: Plant Solidago Houghtonii in full sun or partial shade. It can tolerate shade but will produce fewer flowers.
- Hardiness Zones: Solidago Houghtonii can grow in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Solidago Houghtonii is generally free of pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and rust. To prevent these diseases, make sure the plant has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. If your plant does get infected, treat it with an appropriate fungicide.
Habitat
Solidago Houghtonii is native to North America and can be found in the Great Lakes region, from Minnesota to New York. It grows in open woodlands, fields, and along roadsides. This plant species prefers moist soil but can tolerate a range of soil types and growing conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Solidago Houghtonii a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, Solidago Houghtonii is an excellent plant for attracting pollinators, especially bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Solidago Houghtonii be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Solidago Houghtonii can be grown in containers, but it will require frequent watering and fertilizing.
Q: Does Solidago Houghtonii have any medicinal uses?
A: Yes, Solidago Houghtonii has been used in traditional medicine to treat urinary tract infections and kidney stones.
Q: How long does Solidago Houghtonii bloom?
A: Solidago Houghtonii blooms from late summer to early fall.
Related Plants
- Solidago altissima – Tall goldenrod
- Solidago canadensis – Canada goldenrod
- Solidago gigantea – Giant goldenrod
- Solidago nemoralis – Gray goldenrod
- Solidago speciosa – Showy goldenrod
References
- “Solidago houghtonii.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 3 March 2022. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org>.
- “Solidago houghtonii.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed 3 March 2022. <http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org>.
- “Solidago houghtonii.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed 3 March 2022. <http://www.plants.usda.gov>.
