Types of goldenrod. Goldenrods: beautiful and treacherous. Ornamental species and varieties of goldenrod

Goldenrod (Solidágo) is a genus of herbaceous perennials from the Asteraceae family. Many of its representatives are medicinal plants, hence the scientific name of the entire genus: “solidus” translated from Latin means healthy. And today we want to tell you about the amazing properties of this natural gift, as well as how to use it correctly so as not to harm your health.

Description and types

The genus of plants called goldenrod includes several species, and below we will look at photos and descriptions of the most common of them.

Supreme

Goldenrod is native to North America. It can be found in desert areas, on prairies among tall grassy thickets, in forest clearings and wet meadows, as well as on roadsides. And despite the fact that plants belonging to this species mostly grow in wooded areas, they are intolerant to shady areas.

Goldenrod can be recognized by its pubescent, straight stems and solid, simple foliage. The height of the stem can reach 1.8 m. The inflorescences are lemon-yellow in color and have the shape of baskets, which consist of small (about 2-3 mm) flowers collected in tassels. The length of one such inflorescence is approximately 35 cm. The flowering period occurs in August and lasts about a month and a half.

Hybrid

Hybrid goldenrod is a species that combines quite a large number of hybrid varieties. And the main one among them is the Canadian goldenrod, which is also considered to be native to North America.
Canadian goldenrod is a herbaceous perennial plant whose stem can reach 2 m in height. It is not completely pubescent, but only 2/3, the lower part at the base is bare. The leaves are green, oblong-lanceolate. Numerous baskets are collected in panicles; their size is about 35 cm.

Daursky

The homeland of Daurian goldenrod is Siberia. You can find a plant of this species in meadows and forests, as well as on rocky slopes and pebbles.

This plant barely reaches 1 m in height. Its stem is simple, strong, only the inflorescence is branched. Stem leaves have short petioles, while those located in the basal region have long petioles. The leaf blade can be oblong, lanceolate or ovate.

Wrinkly

Rugose goldenrod is another native to North America. It can be found in swampy areas, bogs, among wet meadows and on roadsides.

Wrinkled goldenrod has a smooth, straight stem, the height of which is about 2 m. The shoots are colored reddish-brown, the rhizome is creeping. The leaves are oblong-oval, with teeth along the edges. The leaves are located throughout the stem with the exception of the basal region.

Ordinary

Common goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea), or golden branch, or golden rod, is a herbaceous perennial plant, the height of which can range from 0.3 to 1 m. The stem is pubescent and weakly leafy, branched only in the upper part, and may have a reddish tint. The rhizome is taprooted, woody and short. The leaves are pointed, ovate or oval, serrated at the edges; located in the lower part of the stem - on the petioles, in the central part and at the top - sessile and smaller. The inflorescences are paniculate or racemose, each with several baskets consisting of small bright yellow flowers.

The flowering period of common goldenrod begins in July and lasts until September, after which fruits appear on the tops of the stems in the form of achenes with a tuft. The fruit is cylindrical and ribbed. Fruit formation ends in October.

The golden rod grows in European countries, Central Asia, Scandinavia, the Mediterranean, as well as in the Caucasus and western Siberia. Found in the European part of Russia.

Common goldenrod is famous for its beneficial properties. Its aerial part serves as a medicinal raw material: most often the upper parts of stems, leaves and inflorescences, less often rhizomes.

Good to know! The grass is harvested during the flowering period of the plant - from July to September, rhizomes are collected exclusively in the fall. Dry by collecting in bunches and hanging in the shade or in a draft. Ready-to-use raw materials have a bitter taste and a pronounced spicy aroma.

Compound

To date, the medicinal properties of goldenrod have not been fully studied, but quite a lot has been established. And this was facilitated by information regarding the chemical composition of this plant.
Herb includes:

flavonoids - rutin, camperol, quercetin, etc.;
acids – organic, ascorbic, nicotinic, phenolcarbonic;
tannins;
bitterness;
saponins;
coumarins;
essential oils;
traces of alkaloids;
resin.

The roots of this plant contain inulin, the fruits contain fatty oils, and the inflorescences contain galactose, arabinose, glucose, xylose and carbohydrates.

Positive effect on the body

When used correctly, the golden rod can bring enormous benefits. Among the properties of this herb:

wound healing;
antibacterial;
diuretic;
choleretic;
pain reliever;
anti-inflammatory;
astringent;
expectorant;
restorative.

Thus, the use of goldenrod may be quite justified in the treatment of various diseases. So, this herb helps clear the lungs of phlegm and thus relieve a coughing attack during bronchitis. With the help of preparations from this plant, you can also significantly alleviate the condition of asthma and promote a speedy recovery from pulmonary tuberculosis.

Golden rod herb shows very good results in the treatment of inflammatory processes of the gallbladder, as well as stagnation of bile. Moreover, the pain syndrome in such conditions is relieved already on the first day of therapy. In addition, products based on goldenrod are often prescribed when it is necessary to remove sand from the kidneys, relieve swelling, cure involuntary urination and pyelonephritis. For conditions associated with kidney and gallbladder dysfunction, an alcohol tincture is usually used. Also, goldenrod preparations show quite high effectiveness for edema that occurs against the background of heart disease.

On a note! Goldenrod preparations cope so well with removing excess fluid from the body that complex conditions such as swelling of internal organs and even the brain often become indications for their use!

Goldenrod can also be very useful for diabetes. It improves metabolic processes and helps normalize blood glucose levels. Moreover, this property can be used not only for diabetes, but also simply when there is an increase in sugar.

The medicinal properties of goldenrod become relevant for digestive disorders. Thanks to their astringent effect, herbal preparations quickly stop diarrhea, and at the same time the cause that caused the problem is eliminated. As a result, pathogenic microorganisms die, and overall health noticeably improves.

Golden rod herb has found quite widespread use as a wound healing agent. With its help, you can prevent the risk of infection of the damaged area and accelerate the regeneration of the skin. In addition, her preparations do an excellent job even with purulent wounds and ulcers - they quickly cleanse, remove purulent masses and heal the wound. Direct indications in this case may include dermatological problems such as psoriasis and eczema, as well as furunculosis.

On a note! In the latter case, goldenrod leaves are usually used - they are soaked in clean water and applied to the affected area for a while!

Goldenrod shows fairly good results in the treatment of respiratory infections, herpes and influenza. It helps reduce the intensity of symptoms, relieves sore throat, laryngitis and stomatitis. When taking products based on this plant, the general condition noticeably and quickly improves, appetite is normalized and metabolism is stimulated.

Use in folk medicine. Recipes

Golden Rod Herb will have different uses on different occasions. For example, it is taken orally in the form of tea, tincture or decoction; it is also possible to use an extract. As for external therapy, you will already need compresses and lotions.

For edema, dropsy, pyelonephritis, pulmonary tuberculosis, asthma. In this case, an infusion of herbs is used, which is prepared according to the following recipe: 2 tablespoons of dried raw materials must be poured with two glasses of boiling water and left for 3-4 hours. After this time, filter the product. We take the prepared infusion 50 ml three times a day before meals.
On a note! This infusion can also be used as a gargle to treat sore throats and stomatitis!
For gout. We brew this remedy: in a container we mix 50 g of goldenrod, black elderberry flowers and St. John's wort herb, add 60 g of cordate linden flowers. Separate a tablespoon of the dry mixture and pour a glass (250 ml) of boiling water. We insist and filter. Take 250 ml twice a day.
For kidney stones. Prepare the decoction: pour a tablespoon of golden rod herb with a glass of boiling water and cook over low heat for about 4-5 minutes. Remove the broth from the stove and leave for a couple of hours. We filter the product and take 2 tablespoons three times a day.
For chronic nephritis. To treat this disease, you need to prepare the following drug: pour 2 tablespoons of dry goldenrod herb with half a liter of boiling water and cook in a water bath for 10 minutes. Remove the broth from the heat and filter. Drink the product 4 times a day, half a glass (100 ml).
For rinsing the mouth and for relieving inflammation of various origins. A tablespoon of rozgi herb must be steamed in 200 ml of boiling water. After an hour, the product is filtered and used externally.
For the treatment of purulent wounds, furunculosis, gum abscesses, sore throat and infectious diseases of the respiratory tract. Pour a tablespoon of common goldenrod into 250 ml of boiling water and leave for 2 hours. After the specified time, we filter the drug and use it in the form of compresses, rinses and rinses.
A decoction for baths, which is indicated for skin rashes, eczema, psoriasis, and skin tuberculosis. Add 50 g of dried raw materials to a bucket of water (10 l) and bring to a boil. Cook for a quarter of an hour, then leave at room temperature for 2 hours. Add the prepared broth to the bath - the temperature of the water in the bath should be about +38...40°C.
Tea. Add 2 teaspoons of golden rod herb to 400 ml of cold water, set on fire and bring to a boil. Leave for a few minutes, filter if desired.

Contraindications and side effects

The golden rod is capable of exhibiting very powerful healing properties, but since some toxic substances were found in its composition, it also has certain contraindications.

Goldenrod is a conspicuous and fragrant herb belonging to the Asteraceae family. Prefers a temperate climate and grows throughout Eurasia. The culture attracts attention with its magnificent fragrant flowers and has healing properties. In natural and home gardens, some space should be left for these wild herbaceous perennials, where they can show off their charm without the pressure of other overly tall plantings.

Goldenrod is used in landscape design. Together with shorter or taller ornamental grasses, as well as with ferns in open ground, goldenrod forms a harmonious picture. Also grown as a medicinal herb.

Goldenrod is a herb that has many synonymous names: solidago, golden rod, scrofula, ironweed, boneweed.

Caring for it is simple, but given that the plant spreads quickly throughout the area, a large plot of land is required for cultivation.

Goldenrod is a perennial cystic rhizomatous herbaceous plant. The elongated, oblong, strong root of the plant goes deep into the ground. On the surface one can see a low-branched simple shoot, up to 100 cm high. The satiny bark covers the straight stem of the goldenrod. It can be emerald or crimson in color.

The bright green leaves of the goldenrod herb are oval or ovoid in shape, with fine serrations along the edges, and saw-tooth. The lower narrow leaves are more elongated than the upper ones. The narrow leaves of goldenrod resemble the shape of willow leaves.

Common goldenrod blooms from May to September. The inflorescences consist of bell-shaped buds, lemon-colored. The length of the flowers reaches 8 mm. Bells with lemon-colored petals grow along the edges, and in the center they are distinguished by a chestnut-yellow color. The fruit formed after pollination is an achene, shaped like a cylinder with longitudinal ribs, up to 4 mm long.

Goldenrod grass is an aggressor plant: one specimen produces up to 100 thousand seeds, germination rate is 95%. In a year it can move tens of kilometers and is the rightful owner of the territories where it has settled.

Goldenrod is used in many industries. Used in veterinary medicine as an astringent. Industrially, yellow and brown paints are extracted from goldenrod. The goldenrod plant is highly valued for its beneficial properties and is used in folk medicine.

Botanical characteristics of goldenrod

Goldenrod is an exceptional perennial plant. It has a straight, strong stem up to 1 m high, longitudinal in shape, of uniform thickness, crowned with a luxurious cluster of golden flowers. Lemon-colored flowers have a delicate delicate aroma. Inflorescences are baskets. Goldenrod has alternate leaves and strong branching. Blooms from late summer to October. The goldenrod fruit is an achene shaped like a cylinder, approximately 3 mm long. Uninformed people sometimes confuse goldenrod with garden mimosa.

Types and varieties of goldenrod

More than 100 types of culture are known. Tall specimens can reach a height of up to 2 meters. There are dwarf varieties, no more than 40 centimeters in size. Let's look at several types in more detail.

Goldenrod

Common goldenrod or goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea) is the best known species.

A perennial, low-growing herbaceous plant with a short, thick, hard rhizome. The stems are straight, up to 1 meter tall, usually unbranched, with leaves. Goldenrod leaves are ovoid, pointed, with notches along the edge. Compared to the narrow lower leaves, the upper ones are smaller. The flowers are tubular, lemon-colored, the inflorescence has the shape of a brush or panicle, consisting of tiny (up to 15 mm) baskets. The fruits are uneven, cylindrical achenes with a brown tuft and are carried by the wind. Flowering occurs at the end of summer.

Lives in the vast expanses of Eurasia. Prefers illuminated prairies, mountain forests, clearings, and places near water bodies. The composition of goldenrod soil is medium, consisting of clay, silt, with an admixture of sand of various grain sizes. In Eastern Siberia and the Far East, closely related species grow - goldenrod (Solidago dahurica) and goldenrod (Solidago decurrens). They are similar to the main type in terms of the chemical composition of their components and are used in the field of medicine. Excellent honey plants.

Not only goldenrod, specially grown on the site, is harvested, but also wild-growing ones. The upper part of the branches with inflorescences is cut off, the raw materials are sorted, then dried. The grass is dried both in natural and artificial conditions.

Natural drying is carried out on a clear day in the open air, on pallets. At night, the grass is removed indoors or under the roof.

Hammocks made of gauze are sometimes hung to dry goldenrod. This method helps to ventilate the raw material from all sides, which speeds up the drying process. The grass is periodically turned over to dry evenly. The gas stove oven is also great for drying. The only thing is that you need to control the temperature in the oven to avoid burning the raw materials. The oven door must be opened.

Special universal dryers are also used. When drying, the rod is protected from bright sunlight, otherwise the raw material may change color, burn out, or lose its natural color.

The grass prefers dry places. Neutral soil is optimal for its growth. To independently determine the soil reaction, you can purchase test sticks and mini-laboratories, the handling of which does not require knowledge of the science of chemistry.

In addition, there are electronic soil measuring instruments in which the measured value is simply read on a scale. Anyone who wants to have information about the deficiency or excess of certain nutrients in the soil of his garden can take samples from various areas and send them to a special laboratory. In the garden, too acidic soils can be brought closer to neutral by adding carbonated lime. High lime content can be reduced by adding manure or compost, as well as peat replacement products.

If we talk about goldenrod varieties, then the Josephine (Aelita) variety is popular, growing up to 70 cm in height. The conspicuous goldenrod is a dense bush, with tiny lemon-colored flowers in large, exquisite inflorescences. The plant is decorative, blooms for a long time, looks amazing as part of hedges, group ensembles in mixed flower beds.

Cut flowers are wonderful in winter bouquets. Plants planted in large groups create a beautiful warm yellow color and smell pleasant. It is important not to allow the plants to seed freely, otherwise they will begin to actively grow.

Cutler's goldenrod (Solidago cutlieri)

There are many known synonyms of Cutler's Goldenrod: S. brachystachys, S. virgaurea, var. alpina. The plant lives in the northeastern United States. The height of the crop reaches 25 cm. The leaves are oval, up to 15 cm long, rough, with fine jagged edges. There are few leaves on the stem, they are small. The inflorescence is very short, amber yellow, corymbose or racemose.

It blooms from September and is fragrant until frost.

This species was one of the ancestors in the development of low-growing varieties. Common and widely known varieties: “Robusta” (Robusta) up to 30 cm high, “Pyramidalis” (Pyramidalis), growing up to 50 cm. Planted in groups on the lawn, in rockeries, as a border along paths. Combines in joint plantings with fighters, larkspur, and various cereals.

Goldenrod highest

The tallest or giant goldenrod has shoots up to 2 m in height. They form harmonious, elegant thickets, shrouded in bright emerald foliage. The inflorescences are saffron-colored, up to 40 cm long. Flowering begins in the first half of August and lasts until October.

Hybrid goldenrod

Hybrid goldenrod became the ancestor of a huge number of ornamental varieties. The plants are small in size and have luxurious foliage. The variety is very interesting to professional flower growers and simply lovers of beautiful flowers. The following varieties are known.

Dzintra

“Dzintra”

The variety was obtained before 1960. It grows in large quantities in temperate regions of the Eurasian continent. A lot of time passes from the beginning of the appearance of buds to flowering. Representatives of this variety delight with flowers for about 45 days, starting from the second half of July. All this time the plant does not lose its beauty and decorativeness.

The bush is strong, up to 60 cm high. The shoots are thick, dark green, with many leaves. The leaves are malachite, glossy, narrow, oval in shape. The inflorescence is umbrella-shaped, dense, golden in color. When the flowering process comes to an end, the ground part is cut off and colorful shoots grow again until autumn.

Goldjunge

The most fragrant of all known varieties. Height up to 120 cm, stems graceful and strong. The leaves are gray on the underside, narrow, the middle part is elongated. The edges are smooth. The inflorescence is in the shape of a panicle, up to 40 cm long, golden yellow, quite dense, the branches are gracefully bent. The baskets are tiny, the reed flowers are poorly developed. Blooms in late summer. The variety is resistant to powdery mildew.

Goldtanne

Tall and late variety of goldenrod. The stems reach a height of 2 m, light green, quite dense and strong. The leaves are narrow, pointed, bluish-green, with clearly visible veins, and there are few small serrations along the edges. The inflorescence is a large panicle up to 50 cm long, quite dense, with elegantly bent branches.

At first, the flowers are yellow, straw-colored, since the color of the reed flowers dominates in the basket, later - amber-yellow, since the color of the tubular flowers predominates. The value of this variety lies in its late flowering (second half of September), height and strength of peduncles.

Golden Dwarf (Solidago hybrida Golden Dwarf)

“Golden Dwarf” (Solidago hybrida Golden Dwarf)

The plant Goldenrod hybrid Golden Dwof is characterized by a bush height of up to 60 cm. The inflorescence is about 17 cm long, the flowers are saffron-colored. Flowering time is August. The variety can be safely grown both in open sunny places and in partial shade. If we talk about soil, specimens of this variety feel better on heavy, moist soils. Plants are planted in flower beds in the background or in separate groups. Look great in autumn bouquets.

Perkeo

An early variety, widely known in cultivation until 1945. The bush is up to 60 cm high and has the shape of a cone. The shoots are graceful, strong, pistachio-like. There are quite a lot of leaves, their length reaches 7 cm, width up to 1.3 cm. The leaves are light emerald, narrow, pointed, smooth, there are few small jagged edges, the underside is covered with villi. Inflorescences are up to 17 cm long, up to 20 cm wide. They form narrow bright racemes, small baskets, with well-developed reed golden-yellow flowers.

The flowering period begins in July and lasts about 40 days. The variety is actively used by gardeners in creating green plantings and is loved by florists.

Pillare

A late variety, the bush is up to 90 cm high, has the shape of a column. The shoots are dense, strong, malachite, with many leaves. The leaves are olive-green, oval-shaped, pointed, with few small jagged edges. The inflorescence is a straight, narrow, short panicle, up to 15 cm long, up to 5 cm wide. Reed flowers are poorly developed, golden-yellow tubular ones dominate. It blooms for 40 days, starting in the second half of August.

Goldenrod wrinkled

Goldenrod rugosa ‘Fireworks’ is a perennial up to 120 cm high, with densely leafy, straight and strong stems. The leaves are simple oval, with fine jagged edges, pointed. Tiny inflorescences-baskets in long arched racemes are collected in a panicle shaped like a pyramid. Blooms from September.

Wrinkled goldenrod grows well in full sun, in slightly acidic, moderately moist or moist, well-drained loams. Used in group plantings on lawns or as a solo plant in flower beds of various types.

Goldenrod

Canadian goldenrod lives in the foothills of North America and Eurasia and resembles common goldenrod. Usually forms thickets. In Poland, China and other countries, the spread of goldenrod is considered a national disaster, since it is capable of rapidly capturing new lands.

The stems are straight, large, up to 150 cm high. The stems branch in the upper part, are strong and hard at the base, and have many leaves along the entire length. The stems are colored in dark green and light green shades. The upper part of the shoot and leaves are abundantly covered with short fibers. The leaves are wide, with serrated edges, up to 15 cm long. The leaves are alternate, having an oblong blade with a pointed apex and base, with noticeable three veins. The lower leaves have fine serrations along the edges, the petioles are short, up to 12 cm long. The upper leaves are entire, sessile, up to 8 cm long.

It blooms in August-September with narrow lemon-colored inflorescences. Flower baskets are small, up to 5 mm in diameter. Reed flowers of lemon color are arranged in one row. The fruit is an uneven achene, shaped like a cylinder, about 15 mm long. Achenes with a brownish tuft, sticking to clothing.

Canadian goldenrod (Solidago canadensis L.) is an ornamental plant, but often runs wild. Wild plants are found in all regions of Russia. Goldenrod roots produce inhibitors, substances that inhibit the growth of other plants. There is a variety of garden forms, which differ greatly in the height and shape of the inflorescences.

Canadian goldenrod is not picky about soils, but it develops faster in relatively heavy, rich soils with average moisture. The application of mineral fertilizers (superphosphate and potassium salt) is beneficial for the plant. During flowering, abundant watering is needed, but an excess of water will cause rotting of the plant's roots and, accordingly, its death.

It develops and blooms well in sunny open areas, but can also tolerate light shading. Very winter hardy. Before winter, it is necessary to trim the ground part at a height of up to 15 cm. Tolerates partial shading, but develops better in sunny areas. The plant is very strong, large, powerful. Based on this, you should choose a spacious place for planting it.

Also, this tall plant with yellow shaggy flower panicles very quickly takes over the territory, so in small gardens it must be handled carefully. Once planted and confined to a path dug in with plastic or metal tape, you will always have an effortless supply of yellow in the garden. It is not for nothing that the popular name of this plant is associated with gold: its color is really quite noble, giving the bouquet openwork and charm.

A popular variety is Goldenrod Canadian Patio (‘Patio’). The plant is up to 40 cm in height, pleases with abundant and long-lasting flowering, the flowers are small, lemon-yellow.

Goldenrod bicolor

Goldenrod (Solidago bicolor). Surprising with two-color inflorescences. Grows in North America. Plants are 120 cm high, the stems are pubescent, grayish-green. The leaves are lanceolate or elliptic, toothed or serrated, up to 15 cm long, decreasing upward along the stem.

Flower baskets are collected in a panicle, reed flowers are snow-white or creamy-white, tubular. Not widely distributed.

Blue-gray goldenrod (Solidago caesia)

It grows mainly in North America. Morphologically noticeably different from other species. The stems are dark green or brown, up to 120 cm long, graceful, glabrous, there are few branches, there are leaves only in the upper part of the stem. The leaves are dark emerald sessile, lanceolate, toothed or serrated, similar to willow leaves. The inflorescences are collected in a sparse cluster, reminiscent of an elegant necklace. Blooms in late autumn and blooms until winter.

Medicinal goldenrod

Canadian goldenrod has important, from a medical point of view, healing abilities:

decontaminate;
relieve inflammation and pain.

In the medical field, the herb is used in many countries. Shoots, flowers and root of Canadian goldenrod are used.

Goldenrod solidago is used to treat diseases of the genitourinary and digestive systems. An extract from goldenrod inflorescences is successfully used in the treatment of inflammatory disease of the prostate gland or prostate, a purely male organ located under the bladder.

The Dahurian goldenrod plant is an active component of some drugs, such as Prostanorm, Fitolysin, Marelin. The drug Prostanorm activates the movement of fluid in the cells of the prostate gland, normalizes the volume of urine produced over a certain period of time. Effectively fights pathogenic microorganisms, having a bactericidal effect and is active against aerobic bacteria.

Marelin - used in the treatment of kidney stones, relieves spasms, and is indicated for infectious and inflammatory diseases. This remedy, based on goldenrod extract, helps remove kidney stones, helps with renal colic, and has a diuretic effect.

The drug Fitolysin is effective for infectious and inflammatory diseases accompanying urolithiasis (urolithiasis). The product has a bactericidal effect and relieves spasms.

Solidago virgaurea is a homeopathic medicine made from fresh flowers. Canadian goldenrod is used in the treatment of pyelonephritis accompanied by edema. In homeopathy, infusion of Daurian goldenrod is used for dropsy, gallstones, diseases of joints and tissues caused by metabolic disorders in the body.

A decoction of golden rod herb is recommended:

for gargling;
for infectious diseases of the upper respiratory tract and ENT organs;
loosening of gums and lotions with purulent wounds;
bone fractures.

In addition, goldenrod accelerates metabolism and is effective for diseases of the skin and soft tissues, as well as liver diseases. The Canadian goldenrod herb, unlike the common goldenrod, is not poisonous and does not contain toxic substances.

Plant care

Goldenrod is an easy and resilient plant. Planting and caring for goldenrod is simple. He is a rare find for lazy gardeners. The culture gives preference to light areas of the garden, so solidago grows more intensively. If the crop grows in a shaded area of the garden, flowering will begin later.

Fertile soils with a neutral or slightly acidic reaction are recommended. Although, the plant will be able to adapt to heavy soils. The goldenrod flower needs proper, regular watering. It is important not to forget that plants love one good watering more than small but frequent ones. Additional watering is only required during long periods of summer drought and heat. With insufficient watering, diseases and decreased flowering are possible.

Sensitivity to alkali should be taken into account when watering and fertilizing. Since our tap water is often too hard, rainwater should be used. Important: in the first 15-30 minutes, depending on the intensity of the rain, water cannot be collected from the gutter near the roof, as this water is filled with dirt particles. To do this, a rainwater valve is installed in the drainpipe.

On poor soils, goldenrod needs to be fertilized. They use mullein and compost. You can also fertilize with a mixture of organic nutrients, for example, horn flour in combination with mineral fertilizers without lime, preferably long-acting.

Fertilizer solutions are added to the soil every month until flowering is completed. It is important to prevent an excess of minerals, which provokes active growth of stems and a decrease in flowering. The inflorescences are removed after wilting to prevent abundant self-seeding.

Tall specimens are tied up. The culture is frost-resistant and does not require additional shelter.

Soil for goldenrod

Close attention must be paid to soil care. Good soil in the garden is a condition for the development of a perennial herbaceous plant. Ensure adequate supply of nutrients by using commercially available compost and organic fertilizers.

Goldenrod grows well in moist, fertile soil, and if you use fertilizers, it will grow in poorer soil. It is necessary to improve the soil, since specimens growing in poor soil have less beautiful flowers. The soil is improved with compost, which ensures the formation of humus, enriches the soil with nutrients, and increases the ability to accumulate moisture.

Diseases and pests

The best protection for a plant is protection provided in advance. Any experienced gardener will confirm how effective proper care is and to what extent it helps eliminate diseases and pests. In this regard, care means not only proper watering and balanced nutrition, but also covers changes in growing conditions in a given place, the distance between plants, the choice of species and varieties.

Goldenrod can suffer from aster rust and powdery mildew. Hot weather creates a favorable environment for the appearance of powdery mildew. To prevent the problem, weak shoots are removed. Plants oversaturated with nitrogen fertilizers are sensitive to powdery mildew, and fertilizing with ash, on the contrary, will help combat it.

Fungicides are used to combat fungal diseases.

Transplantation and propagation

Growing goldenrod

Goldenrod reproduces by seeds, as well as vegetatively - by parts of rhizomes and green cuttings. Any beginning gardener can grow goldenrod from seeds. In the spring, after the last frost, the seeds are sown in the ground without pre-treatment.

Goldenrod propagation methods

Goldenrod propagates by seeds and vegetatively, by parts of roots and cuttings. Cuttings take root without any problems. An acceptable planting pattern is 20(30)x70 cm.

Seeds

The seeds of the plant may lose their viability, so fresh seeds that are no more than a year old are used for planting. Plant seeds in open ground. Sowing takes place from March to May. Plants must be covered in a timely manner with film or cloth to avoid damage from bad weather.

Before sowing, the sowing surface is prepared; the heavy soil is roughly dug up in the fall. In the spring, the area for sowing is loosened using a cultivator. Immediately before sowing, the soil is leveled with a rake to a depth of 3 cm. Grooves are made along a cord stretched along the flowerbed. The seeds are placed in the groove at a sufficient distance from each other. The soil removed when digging the ditch is filled into the ditch, using the back of the rake to compact the soil.

At the end of the work, the planted area is watered with a hose with a fine sprayer. In small areas, it is best to scatter the seeds widely and evenly; in large flower beds and ridges, sowing in rows is recommended. With any sowing, the soil should not be allowed to dry out during seed germination. As soon as the plants sprout and the seedlings can be grabbed with your fingers, they are thinned out. Shoots appear in 16-20 days. In the first year after planting, the perennial rarely blooms.

Dividing the bush

Division is a simple method of propagation. The bush is removed from the ground, cut with a knife or carefully separated by hand. A part of the plant is separated and transplanted to another place. After the first year of growth, goldenrod begins to develop basal shoots, but it is recommended to divide the bush only in the 4th year. Division into several segments is carried out in spring or summer. When planting, leave a distance of at least 40 cm between seedlings.

Rooting cuttings

Rooting cuttings. An apical cutting 10-15 cm long is cut from the mother plant. The upper parts of the stem without inflorescences are suitable for rooting. The cut is treated with a growth stimulator. Rooting is carried out in containers or trays with planting soil. The substrate for planting is either bought in a store or made yourself from equal parts of loose, unfertilized soil and sand.

The top of the tray with the cutting is covered with a glass cap, a jar or transparent plastic film, and placed in a well-lit sunny place. Two weeks later, the seedlings grow roots, and after another 14-20 days they are transplanted to a permanent place.

Medical uses of goldenrod

Goldenrod is valued for its medicinal properties and is used for medicinal purposes:

the herb has a pronounced diuretic effect, therefore it helps in the treatment of diseases of the genitourinary system, such as inflammation of the prostate gland, inflammation of the bladder and urethra, sexual impotence;
effectively treats patients with urate and oxalate stones. Perennial collections are effective against fungal infections caused by microscopic yeast-like fungi of the genus Candida (primarily Candida albicans);
in folk medicine they heal patients suffering from an illness in which stones form in the gallbladder or bile ducts;
treat diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, joints and muscles, cardiovascular system, as well as diseases caused by metabolic disorders in the body;
The leaves of the culture are used for skin diseases, for example, suppuration in body tissues, ulcers.

The trade homeopathic name for a medicine based on goldenrod is Solidago.

Medicinal properties

Canadian goldenrod is actively used in medicine. It has properties that help influence bacteria, leading to their death or suppression of their vital activity. Goldenrod also contains substances that relieve inflammation.

Chemical composition

The set of components that make up goldenrod: organic substances exhibiting acidic properties, a group of nitrogen-containing organic compounds, complex nitrogen-free organic compounds, phenolic compounds.

Golden Rod contains:

aromatic organic compounds;
flavonoids;
coumarins;
resins;
tannins;
essential oil.

Useful properties and uses of goldenrod

Goldenrod has a positive effect on the human body, which makes it possible to use it in folk medicine. The healing properties of the golden rod cannot be overestimated. The collections help in the treatment of various diseases of the skin and soft tissues, inflammation of the gums, destruction or erosion of the tissues lining the gingival sulcus, swelling of the subcutaneous tissue.

Goldenrod speeds up the metabolic process and helps remove harmful toxins from the blood. For medicinal purposes, decoctions, tinctures, and goldenrod teas are used.

Canadian goldenrod is also valued for its medicinal qualities. The inflorescences of the plant and its rhizomes are used.

The preparation of medicinal raw materials is carried out at the beginning of summer, when the perennial blooms. The plant is collected, carefully washed, dried, sheltered from the sun.

Indications for use

Infusions and decoctions from the medicinal herb goldenrod are taken when suffering from inflammation of the upper respiratory tract, pathology of the kidneys and urinary tract, dermatological problems, diseases of the large and small intestines.

Contraindications to the use of goldenrod

Before using medications, you should consult your doctor. It is important to know that there are contraindications for the use of goldenrod, since it contains strong toxic substances.

Preparations based on goldenrod are contraindicated for pregnant women, women during breastfeeding, and children under 14 years of age.

It is forbidden to drink infusions and decoctions if:

glomerulonephritis;
diseases of the circulatory system;
allergies;
phosphate stones.

If disturbances in body functions occur, it is necessary to immediately stop taking the drugs.

How to use?

Decoction, tea, honey and infusions of goldenrod have medicinal properties and affect the body. They ensure the removal of bronchial secretions from the respiratory tract, inhibit the growth and even destroy bacteria and other harmful microorganisms. Drugs can reduce the reabsorption of water and salts in the kidney tubules, increase their excretion in the urine, increase the rate of urine formation and, thus, reduce the fluid content in the tissues, speed up the healing process of wounds, and relieve inflammation and pain.

Healers claim that with the help of goldenrod you can get rid of the presence of stones in the urinary system, poisoning of the body and diarrhea, amenorrhea, urinary disorders, and sexually transmitted diseases.

Decoction

Decoction recipe, option one: pour a tablespoon of ground medicinal raw material into 200 ml of hot water and place in a boiling water bath for five minutes. The broth is infused for three hours and filtered. Drink ready-made goldenrod extract 30 ml 3 times a day for kidney stones.

Decoction recipe, option two: two tablespoons of ground medicinal raw materials are poured into 500 ml of hot water and left for ten minutes in a boiling water bath, then the decoction is filtered, drunk 100 ml 4 times a day for chronic kidney disease.

Infusion

Infusion recipe, option one: pour a tablespoon of ground medicinal raw material into 500 ml of hot boiled water, leave for about 7 hours, then filter the resulting infusion and drink 2/3 cup up to 4 times a day.

Infusion recipe, option two: add 200 ml of hot boiled water to a tablespoon of dry perennial, infuse for an hour, filter. Goldenrod tincture is used to rinse the mouth for stomatitis, gingivitis, and periodontitis.

Tea

Tea recipe, option one: add 400 ml of cold water to two teaspoons of goldenrod, then boil and infuse for two minutes.

Tea recipe, option two: add 400 ml of hot boiled water to two teaspoons of goldenrod and infuse for ten minutes, then filter the tea and drink up to four times a day.

Goldenrod honey

Bees collect goldenrod honey from common goldenrod, which is a beautiful honey plant. Goldenrod honey crystallizes quickly and remains in liquid form for up to 2 months. The honey turns out thick, caramel-colored, bitter, and is not candied.

This honey is an effective natural preparation, used in the treatment of pathological processes in the body. Goldenrod honey is mixed with black currant berries, one teaspoon of the mixture is taken before meals, for the treatment of liver pathologies.

When regulating the functions of the urinary system, one teaspoon of goldenrod honey is dissolved in 100 ml of heated water. Take the mixture 1/4 cup twice a day before meals.
When treating pyelonephritis, about 120 g of goldenrod honey is mixed with lemon juice and rose hip extract and taken before meals.

Herbaceous perennials are suitable for natural and traditional home gardens, where they can be used to dilute vegetation or as a border for a flower bed or edging. With its graceful attractiveness, long stems, and bright spikes of flowers, goldenrod always brings something special to the garden.

Goldenrod is actively used in a range of measures and solutions for garden improvement. Hybrid varieties of goldenrod bloom next to other crops in flower beds without interfering with neighboring plants. Yellow bushes look great in tandem with coniferous plants, as well as with fragrant bright flowers.

Goldenrod is beautiful not only in the garden, but in every home. The bouquet will be fresh for at least two weeks, exuding a pleasant, subtle aroma.

The first mentions of the healing properties of goldenrod date back to the 16th century, and over the past centuries people have learned to use the herb to treat many diseases. We will tell you further how to properly use the miraculous plant Goldenrod, what diseases it will help cure and who should avoid using it.

Goldenrod plant – description, photo

Goldenrod (scrofulus or yellowflower) is a herbaceous perennial of the Asteraceae family, whose name is translated from Latin as “the bestower of health.” The plant's homeland is North America, but it has spread throughout the world.

This fragrant ornamental grass can be tall (up to 200 cm in height) and dwarf (no more than 40 cm in length). The stem is longitudinal, straight, ending in a brush-shaped inflorescence with golden-colored flowers up to 10 mm long. Externally, the blooming scrofula resembles a garden mimosa.

The roots are fleshy, large, but located close to the soil surface. The perennial leaves are long with jagged edges, oval or oblong in shape. The fruits are cylindrical achenes 4–5 mm long. Fruiting begins in September, immediately after flowering, which continues throughout the summer months.

Yellowflower is an unpretentious and tenacious plant. It prefers silty or clay soils in areas of water bodies, clearings and forests. Moreover, one individual is capable of producing 10–11 thousand seeds per season, of which 90–95% will sprout.

The plant genus includes more than a hundred species, the most common of which are:

ordinary;
Canadian;
hybrid;
Supreme;
wrinkly;
descending;
Daurian

Yellow flower is used in veterinary medicine and the chemical industry, but it is most widely used in folk medicine and homeopathy.

Goldenrod

Canadian scrofula is an ornamental plant, but wild species are common in Russia. Unlike common scrofula, it is not poisonous and does not contain toxic components in its composition. The distribution area is North America, hence the name.

A tall plant, it is considered the ancestor of other types of large jaundice. This variety in folk medicine is used to treat inflammatory processes in the kidneys, complicated by swelling of tissues and organs.

The grass is collected at the very beginning of flowering - in July, the first half of August. When harvesting this species, the stems are not used - they are too hard to grind, so after collecting the raw materials, only leaves and opening inflorescences are left.

Goldenrod

This type of plant is also called golden branch or golden rod due to its characteristic appearance. Distributed throughout Europe, Central Asia, the Mediterranean and Scandinavia. In Russia, common goldenrod can be found in Siberia, the Caucasus and the European part of the country.

The above-ground part of the plant has medicinal properties: leaves, inflorescences, the upper part of the stem, and less commonly, the rhizome. A decoction of this type of medicinal herb is used to treat respiratory and hearing diseases, and as a rinse for respiratory diseases.

Common yellowflower is a poisonous plant, so the roots and bases of the perennial stems are used with caution in folk recipes.

Goldenrod (Solidago) is a genus of perennial herbs in the Asteraceae or Asteraceae family. Small baskets with yellow flowers are usually collected in a common paniculate inflorescence; the fruit is an achene with a tuft. About 100 species are known, mainly growing in America, as well as in Eurasia. There are about 16 wild and 5-6 feral alien species growing in Russia.

Many people are skeptical about goldenrod, rightly considering it a real weed. There are plenty of them in vacant lots, along railroad tracks. Indeed, some goldenrods are true weeds, as they spread quickly by self-seeding. However, goldenrod is different from goldenrod. The uniqueness of these plants is in the variety and originality of the shapes of the inflorescences - you will not find them anywhere else: truly paniculate, “fir-tree-shaped”, umbrella-shaped, spike-shaped. The appearance of the inflorescences changes: at first they are denser, later, due to the growth of the central shoot, they become elongated and more openwork. Goldenrods vary in height (from 5-10 cm to 2 m). The name Solidago comes from two Greek words: soli - solid, durable, ago - I act, I do. Some researchers believe that goldenrods appeared on our continent through naturalization. This is confirmed by abundant fruiting, good growth of rhizomes and unpretentiousness to living conditions - they are happy with both drought and rain, but these are flowers of the sun, and therefore they do not recognize shadows.

Goldenrod

Goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea) is one of the most common species. It is also called the golden rod because its stems look like twigs. It grows in Europe, Western Asia, and Northern Africa. Found in dry forests, forest clearings and meadows. The plant is rhizomatous, 60-120 cm high.
The stems are straight, bare or slightly pubescent, branched in the upper part. The basal leaves are ovate or elliptic, blunt, toothed, tapering in the lower part into a long winged petiole.
Their length is 5-15 cm, width 2-5 cm. The upper leaves are smaller and sessile. The baskets are bright yellow, 0.6-1.5 cm in diameter, collected in a small spherical or cylindrical inflorescence. Blooms in June-August. Modern varieties of goldenrod have been created by scientists, but there is very little information about the history of selection.

Goldenrod bicolor

Goldenrod (Solidago bicolor). Received its name for its two-color inflorescences. It grows wild in North America: from Nova Scotia (Canada) to Wisconsin (USA), and from North Carolina to Arkansas (USA). Plants reach a height of 120 cm, the stems are pubescent, grayish green. The leaves are oblanceolate or elliptic, toothed or serrate, 5-15 cm long, decreasing upward along the stem. Flower baskets are collected in a panicle, reed flowers are white or creamy white, tubular flowers are pale yellow. Rarely distributed in culture.

Goldenrod bluish-gray

Blue-gray goldenrod (Solidago caesia). The range of this species in North America is very wide: from Nova Scotia in Canada to Wisconsin, Florida and Texas in the USA. Morphologically significantly different from other species. Stems are 30-120 cm long, spreading, thin, bare, few branches, dark green or brownish, leafy only in the upper part. The leaves are dark green, sessile, lanceolate, serrated or serrated, similar to willow leaves. The inflorescences are collected in a sparse cluster, reminiscent of an elegant necklace. Blooms in late autumn and blooms until winter. In some literature sources this species is erroneously presented as S. graminifolia.

Goldenrod (Solidago canadensis). Homeland - the eastern part of North America: in the north from Newfoundland to Manitoba, in the south - Virginia, Missouri, Colorado (USA). It is found on the slopes of the foothills and on river terraces. Plants with creeping rhizomes. Stems are 0.6-1.5 m in height, straight, bare below, pubescent in the upper part, branched. Narrow-elliptical basal leaves with smooth edges die early. The upper part of the stem is abundantly covered with lanceolate, pointed, jagged or serrate leaves up to 15 cm long. Their upper side is bare, their lower side is pubescent. The baskets are bright yellow, small, 3-4 mm wide, 5-6 mm long, collected in thin one-sided racemes that make up a large paniculate inflorescence. Blooms in August-September. This species became (but was not the only) one of the parents of new tall varieties of goldenrod.

Kutler's goldenrod

Cutler's goldenrod (Solidago cutlieri). Has many synonyms: S. brachystachys, S. virgaurea, var. alpina. It grows in the extreme northeastern United States in the mountains from Maine to New York. Stem height is 10!25 cm, rarely 35 cm. The basal part of the plant is heavily leafy. Here the leaves are spatulate-oval, up to 15 cm long, rough, serrate or crenate. There are few stem leaves, they are small. The inflorescence is very short, golden yellow, thyroid or racemose. Flowering begins in September and lasts until frost. This species was one of the parents in the breeding of low-growing varieties. The most common varieties are "Robusta" with a height of 30 cm and "Pyramidalis" with a height of up to 50 cm.

Types and varieties of goldenrod

According to the timing of flowering, different types and cultivars of goldenrod are divided into three groups:

Early - beginning of flowering late June - early July;
average – second half of July – first half of August;
late - after the third ten days of August.

By height they are divided into:

Low – up to 60 cm.
medium – 60-120 cm.
tall – 120-200 cm.

Dzintra.
The variety was bred and widely distributed in the Baltic states and Belarus by the Latvian breeder V. Nesaule. The plant blooms for 30-45 days from the second ten days of July (2-3 weeks later than "Perkeo") and remains decorative all this time. The “bush” is columnar, persistent, up to 60 cm high. The shoots are thick, dark green, heavily leafy. The leaves are dark green, shiny, oval-lanceolate, pointed, finely toothed, drooping. The inflorescence is umbellate, dense, bright yellow. Universal application in green spaces, widely used by florists. At the end of flowering, the ground part is removed and succulent shoots grow again until autumn.

Goldjunge.
The most fragrant of all our varieties. Height 90-120 cm, stems thin, strong. The leaves are grayish-green (the underside is grayish), elongated lanceolate, elongated in the middle part. The edges are smooth. The inflorescence is a panicle up to 40 cm long, sow thistle-yellow, medium density, rhombic silhouette, branches gracefully bent. The baskets are small, the reed flowers are poorly developed. Blooms in late July or early August. Resistant to powdery mildew. Suitable for cutting, for green hedges, solitary and group plantings.

Goldtanne.
This is one of the tallest and latest varieties of goldenrod. Stems up to 2 m, light green, quite thick and very strong. The leaves are lanceolate, bluish-green, with pronounced veins, the edges are slightly serrated. The inflorescence is a spreading panicle 45-50 cm long, of medium density with gracefully bent branches. At first the flowers are lemon-yellow, since the color of the reed flowers predominates in the basket; later they become dark yellow - the color of the tubular flowers predominates. The value of this variety is in its late flowering (beginning of the second or third decade of September), the height and strength of the peduncles.

Perkeo.
One of the earliest varieties, known in cultivation until 1945, growing in Russia since 1990. “Bush” up to 60 cm high, cone-shaped. The shoots are thin, strong, light green, medium leafy. The leaves are 5-7 cm long, 1.3 cm wide, light green, narrow-linear, pointed, slightly toothed, drooping, smooth, the underside is slightly pubescent. The inflorescence - 13-17 cm long, 15-20 cm wide - consists of narrow openwork radiant racemes, small baskets with well-developed reed lemon-yellow flowers. It blooms for 30-40 days, from the first or second decade of July. Resistant to powdery mildew. Used in green spaces, attracts special attention from florists.

Pillar. A late variety up to 90 cm high, it got its name because of the columnar shape of the “bush”. The shoots are thick, strong, heavily leafy, and green. The leaves are dark green, alternate, oblong-oval, pointed, sparsely serrated, drooping. The inflorescence is a narrow, short, often one-sided straight panicle up to 10-15 cm long and 3-5 cm wide. In the basket, the reed flowers are poorly developed and bright yellow tubular ones dominate. It blooms from mid-August or September for 30 - 40 days.

Goldenrod propagation

Goldenrods reproduce by seeds (often self-sowing), dividing bushes, and green cuttings. They are rarely propagated by seeds, since seed populations are characterized by polymorphism. Moreover, many varieties of seeds do not set, or they do not have time to ripen. Seeds are sown on the surface. They germinate in 14 – 20 weeks at an optimal temperature of 18 – 22°C. Cuttings root well if taken from sufficiently mature shoots, but before budding.
The best time to divide goldenrods is a month after flowering. But if this time coincides with late autumn, it is better to postpone division until spring, especially in areas with cold winters. Therefore, the best time for planting and replanting goldenrods is spring. Plants recover slowly, and the survival rate depends on moisture. Note that when dividing the "bushes" "Perkeo" is more difficult to restore than other varieties.

Goldenrod care

In the first year, the timing of goldenrod flowering is related to the timing of replanting. Plants transplanted in late April - early May bloom 2-3 weeks later than others and 2-3 weeks earlier than those transplanted at the end of spring. With good care, goldenrods can grow in one place for 10 years or more, but the central part of the “bush” gradually becomes bald. If the “bald spot” is loosened, shoots will fill it again.
Goldenrods tolerate dry periods quite well; they require the application of complex fertilizers in the spring, where nitrogen is 10-20%, and in the autumn with fertilizers without nitrogen or with nitrogen not exceeding 10%. Goldenrods grow well in light, fertile, fairly moist soil, but with the help of fertilizers they can survive in poorer soil. However, if plants live for a long time in poor soil, their height is greatly reduced and the beauty of the inflorescences suffers. Constant fertilization with ash prevents the spread of powdery mildew, and oversaturation with nitrogen fertilizers stimulates this misfortune. Removing weak shoots at the beginning of the growing season promotes good development of the rest, as well as luxurious flowering.

Diseases and pests of goldenrod

The main obstacle to the growth of goldenrods is powdery mildew, which most often appears in hot weather. The degree of damage depends on the variety, planting density, and timely removal of plants. You can avoid this disaster by thinning the plantings, removing 1/3 of the weaker shoots from each bush. Plants overfed with nitrogen fertilizers are more susceptible to powdery mildew. Protects spraying with copper sulfate, Bordeaux mixture, Actar (0.2%), Amistar (0.1%).

Uses of goldenrod

The uses of these plants are varied. Widely used in landscaping due to its decorative effect: the flowering time of different varieties is very long: from mid-June to the beginning of winter, but, in fact, they are attractive all the time, since the tips of the shoots already at the beginning of growth shine with light shades of green, while the lower part is usually dark green. They form groups or are planted as tapeworms in landscape and regular flower beds. Their place is on ridges, in borders and mixborders. Low-growing species and varieties are used for rock gardens; tall varieties can be used to cover outbuildings, including nondescript high fences. Goldenrod is suitable for hedges of varying heights. In group plantings, goldenrods can be dominant against the background of ground cover, for example, different types and varieties of thymes, tenacious, low-growing or medium-height sedums. Beautiful neighbors of goldenrods are liatris, phlox, various types of catnip, cereals, low-growing hostas, asters, Siberian irises, low-growing geraniums, and echinaceas.

Previously, this plant was used in tanning and for the production of yellow and brown paints. Some American goldenrod species contain rubber.
Pets do not eat this plant, as the plant is toxic. Veterinarians give the herb with goldenrod flowers to animals for diarrhea and cystitis. Bandages with a decoction of the herb of this plant are applied for inflammation of the interhoof cracks in livestock, and fresh leaves are applied to infected wounds. Goldenrod is sometimes used as an insecticide.

Goldenrod honey

Goldenrod flowers provide a lot of nectar and pollen and are readily visited by bees, and the honey is golden yellow or reddish, aromatic, pleasant to the taste, although a little bitter.
Goldenrod is valuable at the end of the beekeeping period as a late honey plant that supports the activity of bees, through which winter reserves of honey are replenished, and promotes the autumn oviposition of queens. In addition, bees make bee bread from it. Honey productivity of common goldenrod ranges from 30-60 to 80-190 kg/ha. Can provide low commercial honey yield.

Medicinal properties of goldenrod

The first information about the medical use of goldenrod is found in herbalists of the 16th and 17th centuries. It was used to treat stomach diseases and diarrhea, as well as dropsy and kidney edema. The above-ground part of goldenrod is used for medicinal purposes. Terpenoids, saponins, organic acids, phenols, derivatives of phenol carbonic acids, bioflavonoids, coumarins, and polyacetylene compounds were found in goldenrod grass. Scientists found polysaccharides in the inflorescences, and fatty oils in the fruits of the golden rod.
The flavonoid complex contained in goldenrod can have diuretic, antiseptic and hypoazotemic effects. This justifies the prescription of goldenrod preparations for lesions of the urinary tract, dysuric disorders in old age and prostate adenoma. Although goldenrod is not able to dissolve stones in the kidneys and bladder, it can enhance the secretory-excretory function of the kidneys, increase urine pH, stimulate phosphaturia, reduce uraturia and oxolaturia. It is advisable to prescribe goldenrod preparations to prevent the formation and treatment of urate and oxalate stones. The antiviral activity of goldenrod preparations has been experimentally established.
In European countries, the golden rod has long been widely used in traditional medicine. For example, in Germany it is included in drugs prescribed for phlebitis and inflammatory diseases of the urinary system. The British Herbal Pharmacopoeia lists goldenrod as an antiseptic and diaphoretic. Foreign companies produce the following medications using goldenrod: Marelin, Phytolysin, Cystum Solidago, Uritrol (antispasmodics and diuretics); Prostalad, Prostanorm, Antiprostin, Prostamed (prostate protectors); Psoril (immunomodulator). Indications for the use of goldenrod in folk medicine are identical to those in scientific medicine. But different regions have their own recipes for using this plant.
In Belarus and Moldova, for example, goldenrod ointment is prescribed for tuberculous skin lesions, dermatitis, and rheumatism. In Siberia and the Komi Republic it is recommended for scrofulosis, hepatitis, and hemorrhagic cystitis. Tincture of goldenrod roots is used in the Caucasus as a wound healing agent.
In Bulgaria, a paste of fresh goldenrod leaves is used for this purpose.
In China, goldenrod seeds are popular for flatulence, diarrhea, and menstrual irregularities. Tibetan healers prescribe the aerial parts of goldenrod for jaundice and neurasthenia. Homeopaths use essence from goldenrod inflorescences for pyelonephritis, bronchial asthma, diathesis, and arthritis.

Goldenrod - contraindications

Goldenrod contains potent toxic substances, so it is necessary to strictly adhere to the dosage of its preparations. The golden rod is not used in pregnant women and with glomerulonephritis.

Goldenrod is a colorful and aromatic herb from the Asteraceae family. It is found in temperate climates throughout Eurasia. From Germany to the Caucasus and Siberia, on steppe expanses and in well-groomed farmsteads, the plant delights with bright colors and many useful properties. It is used in landscape design, and also as a medicinal plant for a host of ailments. Goldenrod is also popularly known under the names solidago, golden rod, scrofula, ironweed, and boneweed. Caring for it is not difficult, but it quickly occupies large areas, so it needs to be strictly limited or have a spacious area.

Description of the plant

Goldenrod is a perennial herb with a long taproot. The woody rhizome goes deep into the ground. On the surface there is a weakly branched shoot 30-100 cm high. The erect tetrahedral stem is covered with smooth bark. It may turn green or reddish.

The alternate leaves on short petioles are oval or ovoid in shape. The lower leaves are narrowed and elongated more than the upper ones. The edges of the leaf blade are serrated. The stem and leaves have very short, barely noticeable pubescence.

Goldenrod blooms in May-September. Dense corymbose inflorescences bloom in the axils of the upper leaves. They consist of many yellow bell-shaped buds. The length of the flowers is 4-8 mm. Along the edges are bells with yellow petals. The central specimens are distinguished by a brown-yellow color. The buds open from the edge of the inflorescence to the center.

After pollination, fruits are set - cylindrical achenes with longitudinal ribs. Their length is 3-4 mm. The pubescent covering of the walls ends with a brown tuft.

Popular types

The goldenrod genus has more than 100 species. Of these, less than ten are used in culture.

Is the most common. It can be found in the vast expanses of Eurasia and North Africa. The height of the herbaceous plant with slightly branched shoots is 60-130 cm. The oval leaves at the base of the stem have petioles, and the upper leaf plates are sessile. Round and cylindrical inflorescences bloom in June-August. The plant is used for medicinal purposes and is a good honey plant.

The plant is distributed in the foothills of eastern North America and Eurasia. Its stems are larger in size (50-150 cm). The upper part of the shoot and foliage are densely covered with short hairs. Broadly lanceolate leaves with jagged edges are 12-15 cm long. It blooms in August-September with narrow yellow inflorescences.

This species became the progenitor of most ornamental varieties. Plants are more compact in size and have beautiful foliage. Even without flowers, they arouse keen interest among gardeners. The most popular varieties:

fearlenkron - branched shoots up to 80 cm high are covered with ovoid bright green leaves, the top of the stem is decorated with a thick bright yellow inflorescence;
goldtanne - a bush up to 2 m high blooms in mid-September dense yellow-orange inflorescences about 50 cm long;
spatgold - the height of the bush with lemon inflorescences does not exceed 80 cm;
perkeo - compact bushes up to 50 cm high in early August are covered with bright yellow dense inflorescences.

Shoots of this species reach 2 m in height. They form slender thickets covered with bright green entire foliage. In early August, bright yellow inflorescences 30-40 cm long bloom on solidago. They remain on the plant for about 50 days.

Reproduction methods

Goldenrod can be propagated in the following ways:

Sowing seeds. You need to sow seeds that are no more than a year old, as they quickly lose their viability. This is done immediately in the open ground. In the spring, when the temperature reaches +18°C and above, make shallow holes in a designated area and try to evenly distribute the seeds in them. The soil is moderately moistened. Shoots can be detected after 14-20 days. In the first year, seedlings rarely bloom.
Dividing the bush. After the first year of life, goldenrod produces basal shoots, but division is best done after 3-4 years. In spring or summer, the bushes can be divided into several parts. A distance of 40 cm must be left between seedlings.
Rooting cuttings. For rooting, use the upper parts of the stem without inflorescences. In summer you can cut the lateral shoots. Rooting is done in pots with a sand-peat mixture. After 1-2 weeks, the seedlings grow roots, and after another 14-20 days they are ready to be transplanted to a permanent location.

Rules of care

Goldenrod is an easy, tenacious plant. It will appeal to busy or lazy gardeners. The flower prefers well-lit areas of the garden. Solidago grows better on them and forms more buds. It can also withstand light partial shade, but in this case flowering will begin later.

Fertile soils with a neutral or slightly acidic reaction are suitable for planting. The plant can adapt to depleted, heavy soils. Goldenrod needs regular watering, but without stagnant water in the soil. Frequent droughts lead to disease and reduced flowering.

Fertilizer for goldenrod is only necessary on poor soils. Excess of minerals leads to strong stem growth and reduced flowering. You can use mullein or mineral universal fertilizers. Solutions are applied to the ground monthly until flowering is complete.

To avoid excessive self-seeding, it is recommended to trim the inflorescences immediately after wilting. This will protect the area from being completely taken over by goldenrod. Tall bushes should be tied up or supported. In autumn, the shoots are almost completely cut off, leaving only 10-15 cm of shoots above the soil surface. Plants are frost-resistant and do not require additional shelter.

Goldenrod is suitable for use in landscape design. Hybrid varieties of goldenrod are more suitable for a combined flower bed, as they do not self-sow and do not oppress neighboring plants. They are used in mixborders, ridges, rock gardens and rockeries. Yellow bushes are good in the vicinity of coniferous plants, as well as flowering phlox, sage, and asters. This beautiful honey plant will attract many beneficial insects and butterflies to the site.

Goldenrod looks great not only on the lawn, but also in a vase. The bouquet will last up to two weeks and will emit a pleasant, unobtrusive aroma. You can use flowers for drying.

Composition and medicinal properties

Canadian and common goldenrod are widely used in folk medicine and veterinary medicine. They contain large amounts of organic acids, saponins, phenolic compounds, flavonoids, polysaccharides, fatty oils and other bioactive substances.

Medicinal raw materials in the form of leafy stems and inflorescences are collected during the flowering period. Dry them in a well-ventilated area. After drying, it is recommended to thresh and remove the dense stems. The resulting material is stored in fabric bags or paper bags for a year.

Decoction, tea, honey and infusions of goldenrod have the following effects on the body:

expectorant;
antimicrobial;
diuretic;
wound healing;
anti-inflammatory.

Traditional healers claim that with the help of goldenrod you can get rid of kidney stones, body intoxication and diarrhea, menstrual irregularities, urological disorders, as well as sexually transmitted diseases.

Contraindications

It is important to remember that in addition to beneficial properties, there are also contraindications. Goldenrod contains a small amount of toxins, which in case of overdose have a negative effect on the body. Medicines based on solidago are contraindicated in pregnant and lactating women, as well as children under 14 years of age. The plant should not be used if you have diseases of the kidneys or circulatory system, or if you have allergies. If you feel unwell, you should immediately stop taking the drugs and consult a doctor.