Solidago rugosa Fireworks (Rough Goldenrod)

Marking the end of summer with its sprays of bright yellow flowers, Solidago rugosa ‘Fireworks’ (Rough Goldenrod) is a clump-forming perennial that provides a bold splash of color in the late season garden. Blooming for weeks from late summer to late fall, this eye-catching beauty features arching flower panicles that resemble fireworks cascading off the plant.

Marking the end of summer with its sprays of bright yellow flowers, Solidago rugosa 'Fireworks' (Rough Goldenrod) is a clump-forming perennial that provides a bold splash of color in the late season garden. Blooming for weeks from late summer to late fall, this eye-catching beauty features arching flower panicles that resemble fireworks cascading off the plant. They are a great source of nectar and pollen, attracting various species of insects, including small bees, wasps, flies, small butterflies, skippers, and beetles. The fine-textured leaves emerge burgundy in spring and change to dark green in summer. Ornamental throughout the season, Fireworks is subject to less spreading than the species, and can be mixed with other perennials without fear of it becoming invasive.

  • Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
  • Grows up to 30-36 in. tall and wide (75-90 cm). Subject
  • Thrives in full sun or light shade, in average, slightly acidic, medium to wet, well-drained soils. It is not fussy about soils and tolerates clay soils and wet soils.
  • Vital ingredient of late summer and fall borders, cottage gardens, prairies and meadows where it adds color and texture. Also valued for the excellent quality of its cut flowers.
  • No serious pest or disease issues. Keep an eye out for rust, powdery mildew or leaf spot. Deer resistant.
  • Division of the basal rosettes, usually in late winter, is the easiest method of propagation.

Requirements

Hardiness 4
– 8

Heat Zones 4
– 9

Climate Zones 1, 1A, 1B, 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23
Plant Type Perennials
Plant Family Solidago – Goldenrods
Exposure Full Sun
Season of Interest Summer (Late)Fall
Height 2'
– 3'
(60cm
– 90cm)
Spread 2'
– 3'
(60cm
– 90cm)
Spacing 24″
– 36″
(60cm
– 90cm)
Water Needs Average, High
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained
Characteristics Cut Flowers, Plant of Merit, Showy
Tolerance Clay Soil, Deer, Wet Soil
Attracts Bees, Birds, Butterflies
Garden Uses Beds and Borders
Garden Styles Informal and Cottage, Prairie and Meadow