Short's goldenrod (Solidago shortii 'Solar Cascade')

Overview

Solidago shortii ‘Solar Cascade’, commonly known as Short’s goldenrod, provides crucial late-season color when many other perennials are fading. Developed to aid in the preservation of the naturally rare species, this cultivar boasts arching panicles of bright, golden yellow flowers that are highly attractive to essential pollinators. It is valued for its manageable size and relatively contained clump-forming habit compared to wild goldenrods.

This herbaceous perennial is a wonderful choice for gardeners seeking low-effort beauty, as it is noted for its low maintenance requirements once established. Short’s goldenrod thrives in sunny conditions but tolerates light shade excellently, making it versatile for various garden spots. Its presence supports local ecosystems by feeding bees and butterflies preparing for winter.

The cultivar Solidago shortii ‘Solar Cascade’ is a reliable performer in the landscape, offering drought tolerance once established and reliably reaching heights around 2 to 2.5 feet. Incorporating this native gem ensures late summer/early fall vibrancy while supporting endangered plant conservation efforts through horticultural propagation.

Fast Facts

• Plant Family: Asteraceae
• Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 6-9
• Size at Maturity:
  • Height: 2-2.5 ft
  • Spread: 1.5-2 ft
• Bloom Time: September to October
• Bloom Description: Golden yellow
• Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
• Water Needs: Dry to medium
• Maintenance Level: Low

How to Grow

For optimal performance of Short’s goldenrod, plant during the spring or fall when cooler temperatures reduce transplant stress. Solidago shortii ‘Solar Cascade’ thrives best in well-drained soils that are moist or gravelly; avoid areas where water pools. While it tolerates light shade, aim for full sun exposure to maximize flowering density of these golden yellow blossoms.

Watering requirements are moderate; established plants tolerate dry to medium soil conditions well. Minimal fertilization is usually necessary; over-fertilizing can lead to weaker stems. Since plants slowly spread by rhizomes, monitor space, though ‘Solar Cascade’ spreads less aggressively than some relatives.

This species is self-incompatible, meaning it requires cross-pollination to set seed effectively; insects, particularly the soldier beetle, are key allies in this process. Deadheading is generally not required, but you can trim back stems in late fall or early spring if you prefer a tidier look before new growth emerges, though leaving seed heads provides winter structure.

Landscape Uses

Solidago shortii ‘Solar Cascade’ is perfectly suited for native gardens, meadow plantings, or mixed perennial borders where its late summer color can bridge the gap between summer bloomers and fall foliage displays. Its upright structure provides excellent vertical interest without demanding staking.

Consider drifting clusters of Short’s goldenrod near the middle or back of borders, allowing its arching sprays of golden yellow flowers to soften the edges of taller structural plants. Because it is drought tolerant once established, it pairs beautifully with other plants adapted to drier conditions found in rocky slopes or limestone glade simulations.

Standout Features

Flower Qualities

• Showy
• Good Cut

Noteworthy Characteristics

Solidago shortii, commonly known as Short’s goldenrod, is on the Federal Endangered Species list. It is named after Dr. Charles Wilkins Short who first discovered this plant in 1840 growing on a limestone outcrop called Rock Island within the Falls of the Ohio River near Louisville, Kentucky. Plants at this original site disappeared in the early 1900s, at least in part because dam construction on the Ohio River destroyed the habitat. The only know populations of this goldenrod today are the Blue Lick Springs area of northeastern Kentucky (14 populations in Fleming, Nicholas and Robertson Counties) and along the Blue River in Harrison-Crawford State Forest in southern Indiana (1 population). Habitat for this plant mostly consists of open rocky areas including limestone glades, rocky slopes, roadside ledges, wood margins, fields and along river banks. Plants typically grow 2.5’ tall on upright arching stems clad with alternate, serrate, narrow-elliptic, medium green leaves (to 3-4” long). Longest leaves are found near the middle of each stem. Basal and lower stem leaves usually wither prior to flowering. Tiny yellow flowers bloom along the upper stems in small axillary and terminal clusters from late summer to early fall (September-October). Flowers are attractive to bees and butterflies. This plant is listed in the Center for Plant Conservation’s National Collection of Endangered Plants.Genus name comes from the Latin words solidus meaning whole and ago meaning to make in reference to the medicinal healing properties of some species plants.Specific epithet most likely honors Kentucky botanist Dr. Charles W. Short (1794-1863).’Solar Cascade’ was developed by the Cincinnati Zoo Botanical Garden Native Endangered Plant Program as part of its efforts to save the species. ‘Solar Cascade’ is a clump-forming perennial with short rhizomes that spread less aggressively than other goldenrods. It has arching panicles of small bright golden yellow flowers that attract butterflies and bees and is drought tolerant once established

Tolerances

• Deer

Potential Problems

This cultivar exhibits no known serious insect or disease problems, making Solidago shortii ‘Solar Cascade’ a dependable choice for low-impact gardening. Avoid excessively wet, heavy clay soils, as poor drainage can invite root issues common to many perennials. Proper site selection, focusing on well-drained soil and appropriate sun exposure, is the best preventative measure for maintaining a healthy Short’s goldenrod.

Frequently Asked Questions

What hardiness zones is Solidago shortii ‘Solar Cascade’ suitable for?

This resilient herbaceous perennial is suitable for USDA Hardiness Zones 6 through 9.

How large does Short’s goldenrod grow?

Solidago shortii ‘Solar Cascade’ typically matures to a height between 2 and 2.5 feet, with a spread ranging from 1.5 to 2 feet wide.

When does Short’s goldenrod bloom?

Blooming occurs late in the season, generally spanning from September into October, displaying masses of golden yellow flowers.

What sun exposure does Short’s goldenrod need?

For the absolute best performance, these plants require full sun, though they will tolerate conditions categorized as part shade.

Conclusion

Solidago shortii ‘Solar Cascade’ offers vital late-season color, exceptional pollinator support, and very low maintenance, making it an indispensable native perennial. By choosing Short’s goldenrod for your garden, you are also participating in the conservation of a rare species. Check your local USDA hardiness zone compatibility and plant this clump-forming beauty in a sunny, well-drained spot this fall.

Wildlife Benefits

As a late-blooming perennial, Short’s goldenrod is a crucial late-season food source. The tiny golden yellow flowers attract a wide variety of late-season pollinators, including butterflies like Monarchs prepping for migration and late-active bees. Providing nectar options into October is vital for building up their winter stores or insect populations.

Because the flowers bloom so late into the season, Solidago shortii ‘Solar Cascade’ helps extend the foraging window for numerous beneficial insects inhabiting your garden ecosystem. Furthermore, the dried seed heads left standing over winter offer minor structure and potential food sources for overwintering insects or birds.

Propagation Tips

Propagation of Solidago shortii ‘Solar Cascade’ is primarily achieved through division or by managing its rhizomatous spread. Due to its self-incompatibility, collecting viable seed requires controlled cross-pollination between different plants, usually managed by specialized nurseries. Gardeners should focus on division every 3-4 years in early spring before new growth hardens off.

When dividing, gently lift the clump and separate sections that have established roots and several emerging shoots. Ensure that each new division is large enough to sustain itself, ideally having 2-3 strong growing points. Plant these divisions immediately into prepared soil that mimics the well-drained conditions it prefers.