Cascade Canada Goldenrod
Solidago elongata
Care
full sun
moderate
0–5ft tall
Jun-Nov
Friendly
Supports up to 53 butterfly and moth species in Mediterranean California
Mountain meadows and wet areas of the Cascade Range and northern Sierra Nevada, 4000-8000 ft elevation, extending into Oregon.
Care Guide
Planting
Plant your Cascade Canada Goldenrod in full sun - this native mountain plant needs it to thrive. While soil preferences aren't specified in the available data, choose a spot with good drainage since this species grows naturally in the Sierra Nevada and Coast Ranges. Space plants about 2–3 feet apart to account for the mature height of 3–5 feet and the spreading habit via underground rhizomes. Plant in fall or early spring to give the roots time to establish before the growing season.
After Planting
Water moderately during the first summer to help your plant establish, then taper off as it settles in - Cascade Canada Goldenrod is built for the Bay Area's dry season once rooted. Expect the plant to reach flowering size (producing hundreds of small yellow blooms) by mid-summer through fall of the first year. The main mistake is overwatering; this is a drought-tolerant native that prefers drier conditions once established, so err on the side of less water rather than more.
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Wildlife Supported
Insects
late season forager on goldenrod flowers
specialist forager on Solidago pollen late summer through fall
abundant pollen foragers on goldenrod inflorescences
primary forager on goldenrod flowers mid to late summer
adult nectar resource in multiple broods Jul-Sep
late summer adult nectar source
pollen forager during goldenrod flowering period
pollen provisioner for nests in late summer
+4 more species