Solidago virgaurea subsp. minuta

Solidago virgaurea subsp. minuta is a miniature species of goldenrod ideal for pots, bordering flower beds, and rock gardens. It forms a small, compact, and low cushion of deciduous, leathery, dark green, finely lanceolate leaves. It blooms from July to September, covering itself with lots of small golden yellow daisies that brighten up the garden and attract a profusion of pollinators. This is a hardy perennial plant that thrives in well-drained, not too dry soil, in the sun. 

Solidago virgaurea subsp. minuta is a dwarf subspecies of Solidago virgaurea or Aaron's Rod which is native to high altitudes in Europe and very hardy. This woody-based perennial belongs to the Asteraceae family and is a cousin of daisies and sunflowers. Solidago virgaurea subsp. minuta has a spreading rhizome that produces a low and compact bush of upright stems with lanceolate, dark green, leathery leaves that are beautifully wavy with toothed edges. This plant will not exceed 20cm (8in) high when flowering and 40cm (16in) wide. It will flower from July to September, depending on the climate, in the form of branched spikes with daisy-like, 1.5 to 2cm (1in) heads with long slender, untidy petals and a bulging centre of protruding stamens. Its nectar-rich flowers are also medicinal. It likes moisture and does not tolerate drought and heat well, which makes it susceptible to powdery mildew. To combat this, mulch its base well in spring to keep it moist throughout summer.

These modern varieties of goldenrod are highly appreciated for their late flowering and have replaced the old, less attractive, invasive ones. Solidago virgaurea subsp. minuta can be planted in groups of 5, in front of asters (Aster Little Carlow, Aster Blue Wonder), eupatoriums and veronicas (Veronica Blue Candles, Veronica longifolia Marietta) for example. It is perfect in pots or rock gardens where its leafy tuft and generous flowering will accompany lower perennials such as sempervivums, candytufts, aubrietas...

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 in combating rheumatism and arthritis, and aids digestion. It has cleaning and clotting properties when applied to wounds.