Solidago flexicaulis 'Zigzag' is a woodland goldenrod that grows well in part to full shade, featuring arching stems with widely spaced yellow flower clusters that bloom in late summer. Unlike its sun loving relatives it thrives under canopy cover and is tolerant of root competition from trees. Its zigzag stems give it a unique architectural appeal throughout the growing season.
Height & Spread: 24 - 36 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Late summer to early fall
Light Requirements: Part shade to full shade
Soil Preference: Moist to dry, well drained soil
Watering Needs: Low to moderate
Deer Resistance: Deer resistant
Native Status
This species is native to eastern North America, particularly in deciduous forests, shaded slopes, and woodland edges.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Attracts fall flying species such as Clouded Sulphur, Pearl Crescent, and Eastern Comma.
Bees
- Visited by bumblebees, sweat bees, and mining bees, especially during its late bloom window when few other plants are flowering.
Moths
- Supports caterpillars of several noctuid moths including Goldenrod Hooded Owlet and Wavy Lined Emerald.
Birds
- Songbirds such as sparrows and chickadees feed on seeds and forage among the stems for insects in fall and winter.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 18 - 24 in apart to allow for natural spreading and layered woodland groupings.
Landscape Placement:
- Best in shaded pollinator gardens, forest edges, naturalized areas, and beneath deciduous tree canopies where it adds late season color and ecological value.
Companion Plants
- Actaea racemosa (Black Cohosh) - Tall spires and deeply divided foliage pair well with Solidago's late blooms in shaded settings.
- Arisaema triphyllum (Jack in the Pulpit) - Adds architectural spring interest with unique flowers and shade adaptation.
- Carex pensylvanica (Oak Sedge) - A fine textured native sedge that complements goldenrod in dry woods and dappled light.
- Geranium maculatum (Wild Geranium) - Early blooming woodland flower that fades back just as Solidago begins.
- Phlox divaricata (Woodland Phlox) - Provides spring ground layer blooms and tolerates similar woodland soil conditions.