Solidago shortii 'Solar Cascade'
A clump-forming selection of Short’s goldenrod developed for horticulture and conservation. Plants are modest in size with arching stems that carry bright gold flowers in early fall. It prefers full sun and well-drained, gravelly or loamy soils and will spread slowly by short rhizomes. This cultivar offers a garden-friendly way to grow a species of conservation concern in North America.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: Short’s goldenrod selection
- Height × spread: 24-30 in (61-76 cm) × 18-24 in (46-61 cm)
- Bloom window: September to October
- Color & flower form: Golden yellow sprays on arching stems
- Fragrance: 0 none
- USDA hardiness: zones 6-9
- Breeder / Year / Origin: Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden Native Endangered Plant Program, unknown, USA
- Cut‑flower notes: Stems usable as cuts; flowers rated “Good Cut.”
- Pet safety: safe
How it differs
- Smaller and less aggressive than many goldenrods
- Selected from a federally endangered species
- Cascading habit with side sprays rather than stiff wands
- Suited to sunny, well-drained rock or meadow settings
Strengths
- Attracts pollinators
- Deer and drought tolerance once established
- Clump-forming with restrained spread
Care in one minute
- Plant in full sun; tolerates light afternoon shade
- Soil: well-drained gravelly or loam; neutral to slightly acidic
- Water: moderate; allow topsoil to dry between deep soakings
- Feeding: minimal; excess fertility encourages floppiness
- Deadhead to prevent unwanted seedlings if nearby goldenrods are present
- Leave stems for winter cover; cut back in late winter
Watch‑outs
- Stems may lean or flop in wind or heavy rain when in bloom
- Not reliably hardy in colder Zone 5 sites
- Needs sun for best flower set
- 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)
pollinators, borders, meadows, rock gardens, late season
Provenance note
Selected and distributed by the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden’s Native Endangered Plant Program to support awareness and cultivation of Short’s goldenrod.
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden – Solidago shortii ‘Solar Cascade’
- NC State Extension – Solidago shortii profile
- ASPCA – Fall plant safety and rayless goldenrod note
- University of Kentucky Nursery Crop Extension – ‘Solar Cascade’
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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