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Goldenrod cultivar

Solidago rugosa 'Fireworks'

Rough goldenrod cultivar · Ken Moore, 1993, USA (selection)

V Written by Editorial Team · Updated January 2026

A clump-forming cultivar of rough goldenrod selected for its fine, arching sprays that resemble fireworks. It performs best in full sun and average to moist soils and tolerates clay. Plants reach mid-border height and flower reliably in early fall in much of North America. Stems are sturdy for the height and the habit stays relatively compact compared to tall roadside goldenrods. Flowers support bees and butterflies. In trials it ranked among the strongest garden performers and resists common problems under typical conditions.

Goldenrod Solidago rugosa 'Fireworks'
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Fireworks

Rough goldenrod cultivar · Ken Moore, 1993, USA (selection)

At‑a‑glance

  • Group/Class: Rough goldenrod cultivar
  • Height × spread: 36-42 in (91-107 cm) × 30-36 in (76-91 cm)
  • Bloom window: September to October
  • Color & flower form: Bright yellow plume-like panicles; airy, radiating sprays
  • Fragrance: 0 none
  • USDA hardiness: zones 4-8
  • Breeder / Year / Origin: Ken Moore, 1993, USA (selection)
  • Awards/registration: Plant of Merit (Missouri Botanical Garden)
  • Pet safety: safe

How it differs

  • More compact than many tall goldenrods; typical height under 4 ft
  • Distinct radiating panicles that arch outward rather than dense upright wands
  • Tolerates heavier soils including clay
  • Late bloom concentrated in September to October

Strengths

  • Top-rated in Chicago Botanic Garden goldenrod trial
  • Good drought and deer tolerance once established
  • Attractive to pollinators
  • Low maintenance in full sun with drainage

Care in one minute

Plant in full sun; light shade acceptable in hot summers

Soil: average to moist, well-drained; tolerates clay

Water: weekly until established; then occasional deep watering during drought

Feeding: light spring compost; avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers

No pinching needed; deadhead if you wish to limit self-seeding

Divide clumps every 2 to 3 years if they outgrow space

Watch‑outs

  • May self-seed lightly in ideal sites
  • Rust or powdery mildew can appear in humid summers
  • Spreads slowly by short rhizomes in rich soils
  • Pet safety note: Solidago species are generally not listed as toxic to cats and dogs; do not confuse with rayless goldenrod (Isocoma), which is toxic to horses.

Best uses (tags)

  • borders
  • meadows
  • pollinators
  • late season

Provenance note

Selected by Ken Moore at the North Carolina Botanical Garden and introduced in 1993; later cited as top-rated in Chicago Botanic Garden evaluations.

References

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Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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