For successful seedlings,
see the growing notes at the bottom of the page!
Blue-stemmed goldenrod (Solidago caesia) is a woodland perennial that produces long, flexible stems, sometimes with a subtle bluish tint, lined with small bright yellow flowers in late summer. Unlike many other goldenrods that form large clusters at the top of the stem, its flowers appear in small, spaced groups along the stems, giving the plant an airy, natural look. It generally reaches 45 to 90 centimetres in height and grows well in dry to medium soils, in shade or part shade.
Furthermore, goldenrods (Solidago spp.) are recognized as keystone plants for biodiversity in many North American ecoregions, as they support a wide variety of pollinating insects and birds that rely on their flowers and seeds.
Sociability index: 2 to 3 → Indicates the plant’s behaviour in space and its interactions with other plants.
Ecological roles
Blue-stemmed goldenrod provides an important source of nectar and pollen in late summer and fall, when floral resources become scarce. It attracts bees, bumblebees, butterflies, syrphid flies, and other beneficial insects that feed before colder weather arrives. Its stems and leaves can also offer shelter to small invertebrates, enriching the woodland food web. The plant fits well in lightly shaded habitats and helps diversify the flora of these environments, supporting a variety of wildlife while also helping stabilize the soil.
Blue-stemmed goldenrod seeds require cold stratification to ensure germination. See the growing notes below for more details.
Akène cannot assume any responsibility for the use of plants for therapeutic purposes. Always seek advice from a professional before using a medicinal or edible plant.
Sowing and Growing
Technical Details
Seeds per packet:
Family: Asteraceae
Scientific name: Solidago caesia
Life cycle: Perennial
Hardiness zone: 3
Soil type: All types
Soil moisture level: Dry to medium
Soil - additional attributes: Well-drained. Tolerates poor soils.
Drought tolerance: High
Light: Part shade, shade
Blooming: July to September
Spacing: 50 cm
Height: 90 cm
Deer resistance: High
Stratification: 60 days
Scarification: No
Germination time: Approximately 21 days
Sowing depth: Surface
Reproductive system: Hermaphrodite