Solidago virgaurea

Solidago virgaurea, called Aaron's Rod, is a species of goldenrod that stands out for its upright, golden yellow spikes. This herbaceous, bushy perennial forms a large clump of reddish-purple stems with light, medium-green foliage. From August to October, it produces large airy bunches of very bright daisies with long, tousled petals. It is a very hardy plant that thrives in well-drained, not-too-dry soil in the sun. Its light silhouette and late flowering are perfect for adding a natural touch to the background of flower beds between more formal perennials and shrubs.

Solidago virgaurea is native to Europe and very hardy. This woody-based, perennial cousin of daisies and sunflowers belongs to the aster family. Aaron's Rod has a rhizome that produces a light bush of straight stems with lanceolate, medium green, leathery, beautifully wavy leaves with crinkled edges. This plant will not exceed 80 cm (32in) high when flowering and 70 cm (28in) wide. It flowers from August to October, depending on the climate, with branched spikes of daisy-like flower heads approximately 1 cm (0in) with long, slender, disordered petals and a bulging centre of prominent stamens. Its nectar-rich flowers are prized in herbal medicine and have good longevity in bouquets. It likes moisture and is sensitive to drought and heat, making it susceptible to powdery mildew. To combat this fungus, mulch its base well in spring to keep it moist.

These plants are highly appreciated for their late flowering and modern varieties of goldenrods have replaced the old ones that were invasive and of little ornamental interest. Solidago virgaurea can be planted individually or in groups of three with asters (Aster Little Carlow, Aster Blue Wonder), bonesets, veronicas (Veronica Blue Candles, Veronica longifolia Marietta. Alternatively, it can be used in rock gardens where its tall and generous flowering will accompany shorter perennials such as sedums, candytufts, and aubrietas. Its flowers hold up well in bouquets, and they can also be dried before fully blooming to be integrated into dry arrangements.

Aaron's Rod is a recognized medicinal plant. Its flowers are used in infusion as a diuretic and to treat kidney and bladder conditions. It is also useful for fighting rheumatism and arthritis and aids digestion. It also has purifying and hemostatic properties when applied to wounds.