Zigzag Goldenrod

Solidago flexicaulis

Zigzag Goldenrod is named for the distinctly angled, zigzagging stem that carries the leaves and flowers. the stem bends at each leaf node, creating a distinctive pattern that makes the plant identifiable from across the garden. Unlike most goldenrods, which are full-sun plants for open meadows, Zigzag Goldenrod is a woodland species that blooms in late summer and fall in part to full shade. This is the goldenrod for the shade garden, bringing the same pollinator value and late-season gold to spots where other goldenrods would stretch and fail. The flowers appear as scattered axillary clusters along the zigzag stem rather than in large terminal plumes, giving the whole plant a loose, naturalistic quality that suits woodland edge plantings perfectly. It spreads slowly by rhizome to form a modest colony under trees, and the large, toothed leaves are attractive from spring through fall. For native woodland gardens in need of a fall-blooming anchor, Zigzag Goldenrod is often the best available option.