California Goldenrod (Solidago velutina ssp. californica) is a native perennial herb that grows throughout California. It typically thrives in open, grassy prairies and meadows.
Its tiny golden-yellow flowers grow on tall, leafy stalks in large clusters, blooming in late summer and early fall when many other California native plants are dormant. Birds and pollinating insects flock to this plant throughout its long blooming period.
California Goldenrod is a versatile and attractive plant for many applications. It prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade (it grows well in central oak woodlands). It is terrific for planting near arroyos/dry creek beds and rain gardens, allowing it to get wet in winter and spring and then be dry in summer during its growing season. It is gardener friendly and can take extra water in summer.
This plant can spread from a creeping rootstock and can become aggressive if not maintained. Plant it with enough space around it so that it will be able to sprawl without becoming high maintenance. Generally, though, California Goldenrod is an easy-to-care-for plant in most gardens.
California Goldenrod is occasionally mistakenly blamed for seasonal allergies. It is not known to be an allergen, but it blooms when seasonal allergens tend to hit their peak in late summer and early fall.
Solidago velutina ssp. californica - California Goldenrod
Optimal Growth Conditions
- Mature Height: 2 - 4 feet
- Mature Width: 1 - 3 feet
- Sun: Full Sun, Partial Shade
- Water: Very Low, Low
- Soil Drainage: Medium
Geographic Appropriateness
- USDA Zone: Zones 6 - 10
- Sunset Zone: Zones 1 - 9, 14 - 23
- Native Sites: Found in a wide variety of settings and habitats throughout California, including Chaparral, Central Oak Woodland, Coastal Sage Scrub, Fir/Pine Forest, Subalpine Forest, Foothill Woodland, Unmanaged Grassland, and disturbed sites
Additional Landscaping Information
- Characteristics: Flowering, Evergreen, California Native, Long Bloom Time, Spreading, Perennial Herb
- Special Uses: Groundcover, Meadows, Pollinator Gardens, Bird Gardens