Solidago sphacelata 'Golden Fleece'
A compact selection of autumn goldenrod that forms low mounds topped with dense golden plumes. It excels in sunny, well-drained beds and is easier to manage than taller, rhizomatous species. Bloom begins in late summer and carries into fall, extending color when many perennials fade. Plants tolerate poor soils and periodic drought once established. The tidy stature allows use at the front of borders and in small gardens.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: Autumn goldenrod cultivar
- Height × spread: 12-18 in (30-46 cm) × 12-18 in (30-46 cm)
- Bloom window: August to October
- Color & flower form: Golden yellow sprays in dense plume-like panicles
- Fragrance: 0 none
- USDA hardiness: zones 4-8
- Breeder / Year / Origin: Mt. Cuba Center (Dick Lighty), 1989, USA
- Awards/registration: Internationale Stauden-Union award, 1994; Plant of Merit
- Pet safety: safe
How it differs
- Shortest stature among common garden goldenrods
- More clumping and better behaved than the species
- Earlier start to bloom in late summer
- Rounded foliage and sprays suitable for small spaces
Strengths
- Adaptable to sun to part shade
- Tolerates dry, infertile soils
- Attracts bees and butterflies
- Proven garden performance and awards
Care in one minute
- Site in full sun for best bloom; part shade acceptable
- Soil: average, dry to medium, well-drained
- Water: regular during the first season; drought tolerant afterward
- Feeding: minimal; too much nitrogen can cause lax growth
- Deadhead to extend bloom and limit seedlings
- Divide if clumps spread beyond 30 in
Watch‑outs
- Leaf rust, powdery mildew or leaf spots can appear
- Can spread slowly over time; deadhead to limit self-seeding
- 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, pollinators, small gardens, late season
Provenance note
Discovered as a compact seedling in Eden, North Carolina in 1985 and introduced by Mt. Cuba Center in 1989; later recognized with an international perennial award.
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden – Solidago sphacelata ‘Golden Fleece’
- Mt. Cuba Center – Golden Fleece autumn goldenrod
- ASPCA – Fall plant safety and rayless goldenrod note
- Chicago Botanic Garden – Goldenrod profiles
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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