Goldenrod (lat. solidago) is a flower from childhood. One fine day he appears in your garden as an uninvited guest and modestly begins his life in some abandoned corner. Very little time passes, and its sunny yellow panicles of inflorescences are already noticeable throughout the entire area.
But for some reason you don’t raise your hand to uproot the impudent plant, and it remains to live next to you forever. Its dense thickets provide an excellent refuge for birds, and the golden flowers smelling of honey simply attract bees and butterflies.
Blooming in late summer and early autumn, goldenrod is an indispensable flower for autumn bouquets, when there are so few bright colors left in nature.
Botanical characteristics
All numerous representatives of the genus are rhizomatous herbaceous perennials with strong, erect stems. The height of the stems ranges from half a meter to two. The arrangement of leaves on the stem is alternate, the leaf blade is entire, lanceolate, the leaf edges are more or less finely serrated.
The flowers are yellow, small, usually very numerous, often collected in a loose inflorescence panicle, less often in a raceme or scutellum. The root system is powerful.
The type of solidago is usually easy to recognize by its characteristic golden inflorescences, and the variety of goldenrod can be determined from a photo.
Classification
Genus Solidago fam. Asteraceae includes 117 species. Most species are native to the northern hemisphere, with about 80 native to the prairies and forests of North America, mostly Canada. And only a few are native species to South America and temperate Eurasia: 8 in Mexico, 4 in South America, 6-10 in Europe and Asia.
On the territory of the European part of Russia (the Caucasus and the south of Western Siberia) common goldenrod grows, in the Far East and Eastern Siberia - Daurian and descending goldenrod. In its homeland, the plant is considered a weed, but in Europe it is valued as a beautiful garden flower.
About 20 species of Solidago are used in gardening, but significantly fewer are widely used:
Canadian goldenrod (S. сanadensis) is one of the most common species in Russian gardens. It runs wild in the middle zone, and now it can be found on the outskirts of populated areas, along roadsides and even near garbage dumps - which, of course, brightens up the unsightly landscape.
Many garden forms have been obtained from Canadian goldenrod, united under the name Hybrid goldenrod (S. x hybrida).
Goldenrod (S. altissima) - sometimes considered a subspecies of the Canadian goldenrod. In terms of height and shape of the bush, as well as inflorescences, they are indeed very similar.
Common goldenrod (S. virgaurea), synonym Golden rod. Translated from Latin, the species name “virgaurea” means “golden branch”. Interestingly, the “Botanical Dictionary” of 1878 lists 48 popular and literary Russian names for this plant, which indicates its enormous popularity among the population.
Bicolor goldenrod (S. bicolor) is not very common in cultivation. It differs from other species of the genus in its two-color inflorescences: reed flowers are white, tubular flowers are light yellow.
Blue-gray goldenrod (S. caesia) - the distinctive feature of the species is not the flowers, but the stems: dark green or brownish in color, spreading, almost bare, leafy only in the upper part. The leaves resemble willow.
Cutler's goldenrod (S. cutlieri) - this species with unusually low stems (10-30 cm) served as the basis for the development of many modern low-growing garden varieties. The height of the tallest of them does not exceed 50 cm.
Wrinkled goldenrod (S. rugosa) - the color of the shoots is characteristic reddish-brown, the stems are smooth, straight, up to 2 m tall. In its homeland in North America it is called rough-stemmed goldenrod.
Prefers marshy areas and damp meadows. As a garden plant, it is valuable because it does not grow and is not susceptible to LMR - and this is a real scourge for most species of solidago.
To a lesser extent, other types are used in floriculture:
- Shorty's goldenrod (S. shortii)
- Ridl's goldenrod (S. riddellii)
- Goldenrod (S. rigida)
In addition to the above-mentioned species, new excellent varieties of solidago are becoming increasingly popular: reliable, cold-resistant, spreading or, on the contrary, practically not growing, resistant to diseases.
Breeders have also developed a hybrid between Aster yarrow and Solidago canadiana - Solidaster yellow: a plant that is undemanding to soil, the flowers of which are good for cutting.
Growing and care
Goldenrod has a reputation as a rather aggressive plant; in some countries it is even classified as a so-called invasive species (a dangerous alien plant that so actively invades new territories that it displaces native species of flora).
In addition, most solidago species are susceptible to downy mildew. But this, perhaps, exhausts all the shortcomings of the sunny flower, and everything else is just a long list of its advantages.
In cultivation, this is a very simple and undemanding plant that can be successfully grown by the most inexperienced flower lover. Goldenrod is able to survive and grow well even in the shade, although, of course, it will not be able to show its best qualities.
If there is a well-lit corner of the garden with heavy, moist soil, this place is ideal for goldenrod. It prefers acidic soil, but as a persistent and courageous plant, it will also live in alkaline soil.
It needs regular watering, but in extreme cases it can be content with only rain. Does not require fertilizing. Shelter for the winter is not required. It will be enough to cut off the faded stems in late autumn, leaving small stumps 10-15 cm high.
Modern varieties, it should be noted, are not as unpretentious and resilient as species plants. But varieties can be selected to suit every taste: for a low-maintenance garden - slowly growing, for the so-called. “wild border” - resistant to downy mildew, for a garden in a landscape style - species plants, for decorating walls, fences, outbuildings - tall and profusely flowering.
As part of a hedge and even in an orchard, planting goldenrod is of great benefit. The fact is that goldenrod is an excellent honey plant, and insects love it very much, incl. and predatory. And the presence of such helpers in the garden, of course, only benefits both the cultivated plants and the gardener himself.
Application in medicine
The medicinal properties of goldenrod are widely used in official and folk medicine, homeopathy and veterinary medicine. In herbal medicine, the upper, leafy part of the stems with inflorescences is used for medicinal purposes. The pharmacological spectrum of action of goldenrod is very wide, which is due to the chemical composition of the plant.
Common goldenrod is included in the British Pharmacopoeia, is officially recognized as traditional medicine in Germany, and Canadian goldenrod herb is included in some complex medicinal products produced in Ukraine and Poland.
Traditional medicine uses both types of goldenrod with equal success: common and Canadian, but the latter is much more potent.
Native Americans, by the way, chewed goldenrod leaves to relieve sore throats, and the roots to get rid of toothache.
When using traditional medicine recipes to treat a serious illness, you should always first of all remember: any self-medication is dangerous, and instead of the expected benefit, it can cause harm!
You cannot unconditionally take on faith and try on yourself recipes you read on the Internet - you should find a good doctor and consult with him. However, this applies not only to treatment with goldenrod (it also contains toxic substances).
Photo of goldenrod
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 (scrofula 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 variety 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.
Many of us are familiar with Canadian goldenrod. This is a perennial herbaceous plant, the top of which is decorated with sunny golden inflorescences.
It is used as a decorative plant by many gardeners. Its lush arched flower stalks decorate many flower beds until late autumn. These plants are pleasing to the eye both when cut and in a winter bouquet. However, such a cute flower is considered not only decorative. Alternative and traditional medicine uses it as an excellent antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and diuretic.
A little history
The name of this plant, solidago, consists of two Latin words. These are solidus, which means "strong", and ago - "to do". Literally translated, “he who makes health.”
And here it already becomes clear that Canadian goldenrod has medicinal properties.
The plant was brought to Europe from North America as an ornamental. After this, it went wild and spread over a large area.
In 1863, Canadian goldenrod was named the national plant of the Confederacy due to its gray and yellow flowers. Since 1895, it has become one of the official symbols of the state of Nebraska. Since 1926, the Canadian goldenrod has been the symbol of the state of Kentucky.
This plant is popularly called scrofula and life-giving herb, hare's down and yellowflower.
Classification
The Canadian goldenrod plant is a perennial plant. This is one of many (about 120) species belonging to the genus Goldenrod. The plant belongs to the Asteraceae or Asteraceae family.
Botanical description
What is Canadian goldenrod? The photo and description below introduce us to this perennial herbaceous plant.
Canadian goldenrod is quite tall. Its stems reach almost two meters in height. Moreover, they are branched, erect, with a large number of leaves along the entire length and woody at the very base. Not surprisingly, they are supported by a powerful rhizome.
The plant has alternately placed pointed lanceolate leaves, on which three veins can be seen. The lowermost green plates have a serrated-toothed shape. These leaves arise from the stem using short petioles. At the top there are sessile, entire-edged leaves.
In the second year of life, starting in mid-summer, the plant begins to bloom. This condition continues for one and a half to two months. What can you observe? At the very top of the stems, paniculate inflorescences-baskets begin to form, which consist of small yellow flowers. 5-6 of them are reed, and 6-8 are tubular. They contain five stamens with a lower ovary. By the end of August, Canadian goldenrod begins to form cylindrical achenes. They contain small seeds with a small tuft, having
The plant is an excellent honey plant. Its propagation occurs both with the help of wind and vegetatively (by cuttings or part of the rhizome).
In Russia you can find two varieties of goldenrod - Canadian and ordinary (golden rod). The plant is cultivated for decorative and medicinal purposes. At the same time, a species such as Canadian goldenrod exhibits stronger medicinal properties, affecting the patient’s body much more effectively.
The root system of the plant has the ability to grow independently. At the same time, Canadian goldenrod (see photo below) is gradually displacing and drowning out a huge number of species of other plants.
For example, in China this is considered a serious agricultural problem that needs to be addressed to preserve the crops planted in the fields.
Spreading
Canadian goldenrod is native to North America. Today, the territory of its distribution is quite extensive. The plant can be found throughout Europe. Huge thickets of goldenrod are also found in America and Asia. In this case, wild and cultivated species are distinguished.
The plant prefers light sandy soils located in well-lit areas. Canadian goldenrod is often found on forest edges. It also grows along roads, as well as near houses in rural areas. Gardeners consider it an unpretentious, beautifully flowering plant.
Procurement of raw materials
Canadian goldenrod, whose medicinal properties are widely used in the treatment of many diseases, is pre-harvested for the production of various drugs.
The stems of the plant serve as medicinal raw materials. In the field of homeopathy, its fresh flowers are used to produce products. Only in its above-ground part does the Canadian goldenrod exhibit medicinal properties (photo below).
Harvesting of medicinal herbs begins during its flowering period. In this case, only the inflorescences of the plant, as well as its leaves without hard stems, are considered suitable.
Baskets of flowers are collected only when they open. Already blossomed after cutting them fluff up and throw out seeds.
The collected raw materials are placed under a canopy, out of direct sunlight. The temperature should not exceed 40 degrees. It is worth noting that the hard tops of the stems cannot be harvested. They are simply thrown away.
The dried parts of the plant are packed in paper bags. Goldenrod raw materials can be stored for no more than two years without losing their medicinal properties.
Chemical composition
What are the medicinal properties of Canadian goldenrod? Its rich chemical composition contains a large number of flavonoids and tannins, alkaloids and essential oils, chlorogenic and caffeic acid, coumarins and saponins, chlorophyll and diterpenes, lipophilic substances and triterpene compounds, as well as resins.
The combination of these useful elements leads to the fact that the plant is able to produce a healing effect to eliminate a large number of pathologies, and therefore it is used not only by folk medicine, but also by official medicine.
Pharmacological properties
What are the benefits of goldenrod? Official medicine classifies it as a strong diuretic. This action becomes possible thanks to the saponins included in its composition. In addition to the medicinal properties of Canadian goldenrod, contraindications are also considered. Thus, the plant can increase the pH of urine, and therefore drugs containing this medicinal herb are not recommended for patients who have phosphate stones. Canadian goldenrod is particularly effective in other cases. Thus, it is indicated for urate and oxalate stones, urolithiasis, as well as pathologies of the kidneys and bladder.
The flavonoids that make up Canadian goldenrod can reduce the permeability of capillaries - small vessels. In addition, the plant exhibits its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects on the body. A positive effect was noted when it was used to eliminate thrush (candidiasis), which is explained by the destructive effect of the active substances of the medicinal herb on the pathogenic yeast fungi candida.
Application area
The beneficial properties of Canadian goldenrod allow it to be used to treat many diseases. After all, the plant has a pronounced anti-inflammatory and choleretic, diuretic and antibacterial, astringent and expectorant, analgesic and hypoglycemic, restorative and wound-healing effect (see photo of Canadian goldenrod below).
The medicinal properties of the plant, namely its powerful antibacterial effect, make it an excellent addition to drug therapy for a disease such as pulmonary tuberculosis. In addition, the medicinal herb has an expectorant and antitussive effect, helping to clear the lungs of phlegm in them, which provokes coughing attacks. Doctors note that after including the plant in the course of therapy, the patient’s condition improved significantly.
The plant provides invaluable assistance in the treatment of bronchitis, as well as bronchial asthma. This occurs not only due to its antitussive properties, but also due to its powerful anti-inflammatory, antifungal and antibacterial effects.
Preparations containing Canadian goldenrod help with inflammatory processes in the bile ducts and gallbladder, as well as with bile stagnation. Pain syndromes in such cases are relieved already on the first day of treatment.
The plant is used to provide a diuretic effect when it is necessary to remove sand from the kidneys, as well as to relieve swelling. Moreover, preparations containing Canadian goldenrod improve the patient’s condition even in cases where he has swelling of the internal organs or even the brain. The healing herb actively removes fluid from the body in the shortest possible time, eliminating its excess.
Canadian goldenrod is also used for liver pathologies. In this case, it is also able to exhibit a pronounced therapeutic effect. At the same time, inflammation is relieved, the liver is cleansed of toxins, and self-healing processes of the affected cells are launched.
Canadian goldenrod helps against diabetes. At the same time, it speeds up metabolic processes. In turn, this leads to rapid burning of sugar. It is recommended to take medications with a medicinal plant regularly. This will significantly reduce sugar levels in the body. This property of the medicinal herb is used not only for diabetes. Medicines containing it are recommended for people with high sugar levels.
Goldenrod is also good for diarrhea. It can not only stop the unpleasant phenomenon, but also eliminate the very cause of the disease. This becomes possible due to the fact that pathogenic microorganisms, which usually cause diarrhea, die when interacting with the substances that make up the medicinal herb.
Canadian goldenrod is also used as a wound healing agent. It prevents infection and accelerates the regeneration process of the upper layers of the skin. In cases where it is necessary to heal ulcers or purulent wounds, you should also not forget about this amazing herb. It will quickly cleanse the wound of purulent-necrotic discharge and will soon heal it.
Contraindications
When is Canadian goldenrod not used? Contraindications prohibiting treatment with drugs containing this plant are as follows:
Pregnancy period;
- age up to 12 years;
- period of breastfeeding;
- allergies;
- glomerulonephritis in acute form.
In addition, it is worth considering that the plant is poisonous. In this regard, Canadian goldenrod can cause harm to the body. To prevent this from happening, exceeding the permissible dosage when using it is simply unacceptable.
Application in official medicine
The medicinal properties and contraindications of Canadian goldenrod are well known to pharmacologists in Russia and other countries. They use the plant to create some complex preparations that have hypoazotemic and diuretic, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. These are, for example, such products as “Marelin” and “Prostanom”, “Phytosilin” and others. Let's consider the scope of their application.
The drug "Prostanorm" contains a liquid extract obtained from the above-ground part of the plant. This pharmacological agent is successfully used in the treatment of prostate pathologies (chronic and acute adenomas, prostatitis). The drug improves fluid circulation in the prostate and also normalizes the process of diuresis. Its active substances act on staphylococci, enterococci and streptococci.
Doctors use the anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic drug “Marelin” for kidney stones. The product is based on a dry extract of goldenrod, due to which the kidney stones are discharged, diuresis is increased and renal colic is eliminated.
The drug "Fitolysin" is used in the treatment of inflammatory and infectious processes accompanying urolithiasis (urolithiasis). The product helps create a bacteriostatic, bactericidal and antispasmodic effect.
Based on fresh inflorescences of Canadian goldenrod, the homeopathic remedy Sjlidago virgaurea is used. It is recommended for chronic kidney inflammation, which is accompanied by catarrh, rheumatic spasms and edema.
Use by traditional healers
Alternative medicine recommends using Canadian goldenrod internally and externally, using tinctures and decoctions. In the first case, the plant is indicated for rheumatism, gout, cholelithiasis and stomach disorders. Regular use of a decoction made from this medicinal herb helps remove stones from the kidneys and urinary tract. At the same time, the person ceases to be tormented by spasmodic kidney pain. In addition, decoctions are recommended for treating the throat, getting rid of colds, and also for eliminating unpleasant odor from the mouth.
The same drug is used externally. Leaves of Canadian goldenrod are boiled for lotions in the treatment of furunculosis, cuts, poorly healing and purulent wounds. There is another excellent external remedy that can relieve a person from various skin diseases. These are crushed dry leaves of the plant mixed with cream.
Traditional medicine also uses the essential oil of a medicinal plant. Moreover, it can be used both as an independent remedy and in combination with other oils intended for aroma lamps, local applications, as well as for massage actions.
honey plant
How else can Canadian goldenrod be used? The plant is distinguished by a high content of nectar in its flowers, which is produced throughout the daylight hours. During the entire flowering period, which is about two months, bees are able to collect up to 100-150 kg of honey from one hectare. This product has a tart taste and a bitter aftertaste. Its color is dark brown. Honey in its liquid consistency can be stored for no more than 1-2 months. After this, it crystallizes.
Honey from Canadian goldenrod is also used in traditional medicine. After all, this beekeeping product has many medicinal qualities, which are due to the presence of beneficial substances in the plant itself. In addition, nectar processed by bees becomes even more valuable. Goldenrod honey has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. Its use helps fight kidney diseases and urinary tract ailments. In addition, this valuable beekeeping product helps with dermatitis and eczema. Its use allows you to strengthen the immune system, as well as have a positive effect on metabolic processes.
Traditional healers recommend this honey not only orally. It can also be used as part of ointments and compresses. This use allows you to cure eczema, swelling, dermatoses, long-healing wounds, as well as skin irritations.
Honey also has a beneficial effect on the digestive, cardiac and nervous systems. This product is also considered an excellent remedy for treating sore throat, meningitis, rhinitis and sinusitis.
When choosing plants for my site, I give preference to stable and unpretentious flowers that do not require care. For example, I have been growing goldenrod, or golden rod, for many years. The plant can bloom almost the entire season and does not require regular watering or fertilizing.
Goldenrod, or golden rod, is a perennial herbaceous plant of the Asteraceae family. Widely distributed in the wild in temperate latitudes of the northern hemisphere. Translated from Latin, the name means “strong, healthy,” which is due to the unique healing properties of goldenrod.
The flowers and roots of the plant have an anti-inflammatory and astringent effect and are used in traditional medicine recipes. The petals are used to make yellow organic paint. Botanical features of goldenrod:
- forms a powerful and long root that goes deep into the ground;
- the slightly branched stem grows up to 100 cm;
- leaves are oval or ovoid with small serrations;
- flowering occurs from May to the second ten days of September;
- small flowers of rich golden color, collected in small buds;
- In autumn, a seed pod is formed.
Goldenrod is suitable for both single and group planting. It looks especially decorative with other aster, coniferous shrubs and cereal crops.
When planting large quantities, care should be taken, since the seeds have a high germination rate and the plant quickly fills a large space. To avoid self-seeding, it is important to cut off the buds after flowering.
Types and varieties
About 100 species of goldenrod are known, 20 of which are used as ornamental flowering plants. They differ in bush height, flowering characteristics and growing requirements. Known species:
- Common goldenrod. The height of the plant varies from 60 to 100 cm and has a powerful root. Small yellow flowers are collected in fluffy spherical inflorescences. Flowering is observed from June to the second half of August;
- Canadian. Has high frost resistance and stability. It grows up to 150 cm in height, the stems are erect, but there is a slight branching in the upper part. The leaves are large, can reach 15 cm in length. Yellow flowers are collected in a basket-shaped inflorescence with a diameter of 4 to 15 cm;
- Kutler's goldenrod. A low-growing plant, grows up to 25 cm in height. The leaf blades are rough and quite long. The flowers are golden in color, collected in racemes or thyroid inflorescences;
- Supreme. In open ground conditions, the height of the bush reaches 2 m. The stems are erect and have strong pubescence over the entire surface. Blooms later, the buds are colored in a pleasant lemon shade;
- Hybrid. It is from this species that almost all decorative varieties originate. It is distinguished by its compact size, beautiful and long-lasting flowering. The height of the bush and the color of the petals depend on the variety;
- Bluish-gray. One of the most decorative types of goldenrod. It can grow up to 120 cm, the stems are thin and spreading. The foliage is dark green or glaucous in color, without petioles. Flowering can continue until the first autumn frosts.
There are a large number of goldenrod varieties available for sale. They differ in flowering period (early, middle and late), as well as bush height from 60 to 200 cm. Popular varieties: Pillare, Goldjunge, Goldtanne, Golden Dwarf, Perkeo.
Conditions of detention
Goldenrod is an unpretentious plant that can quickly develop and grow in any conditions and adapts to unfavorable factors. The flower can be planted in both well-lit and darkened areas. In some countries, the golden rod is considered an aggressive plant, so it is advisable to plant the flower away from cultivated plantings.
The plant can be grown on any type of soil; goldenrod grows best in moist and heavy, but fertile soils with a neutral reaction. The growth rate can be accelerated by adding organic matter to the substrate during routine digging of the planting area.
Planting seeds in open ground
In its natural environment, goldenrod reproduces by seeds or shoots. All cultivated varieties are usually planted by seed. Planting material quickly sprouts and takes root; it is rarely affected at the seedling stage. Work can be carried out in the spring after the snow melts or in the second half of October. Open ground planting technology:
- Dig up the soil to the depth of a spade bayonet, add mullein at the rate of 5 kg/m2 and level the planting site.
- Pre-moisten the seeds in a damp cloth for 3-4 hours to enhance germination.
- Scatter the seeds on the surface when planting in spring or deepen them 2-3 cm into the soil if you sow in the fall. Sprinkle the top with a mixture of sand and fertile soil up to 3 cm thick.
- Water the planting generously. No covering is required.
The first shoots appear in 14-20 days, after which the seedlings can be thinned. The optimal distance for medium-growing and long varieties is 60-80 cm; low-growing and border varieties of goldenrod are grown at intervals of 30-40 cm.
Features of care
The golden rod is easy to care for. The plant can grow in one place for many years without the need for replanting or even constant feeding. To improve decorativeness and maintain health, minimal care should be observed. Basic procedures:
- the plant does not need regular watering. Water should be added only in the dry season at the rate of 10 l/m2. Spraying is carried out as needed; it is recommended to avoid getting water on goldenrod flowers;
- fertilizing is applied only when growing crops in poor or heavy soil. To enhance the decorative qualities, fertilizers are used in spring and autumn. For this purpose, a complex composition for flowering plants, an aqueous solution of mullein in a ratio of 1:10 or an ash solution is best suited;
- During the first year of growth, it is important to promptly loosen the soil and remove all weeds. Subsequently, the procedure is carried out only as needed, since goldenrod has a powerful root system;
- To avoid self-seeding, after flowering ends, all flower stalks should be cut off, and the planting should also be thinned out during the season. It is also recommended to observe sanitary pruning - remove weak and diseased vegetative parts.
Goldenrod has high frost resistance, but when grown in northern regions, it is advisable to prepare for winter. To do this, at the end of autumn, you should cut the bush to a height of 15-20 cm above the ground level, mulch the soil generously with sawdust or peat with a layer of 5-7 cm.
Reproduction methods
If there is an adult plant on the site, it can be easily propagated to increase the planting volume. The procedure is carried out in the following vegetative ways:
- Cuttings. Provides almost 100% survival rate; the daughter plant has high resistance and immunity. The procedure is carried out when the first buds begin to swell. For propagation, well-formed shoots with 2-3 growth buds are separated. After this, the cutting should simply be deepened in fertile soil, watered abundantly and mulched. Rooting occurs within a month;
- Dividing the bush. For propagation, you need to use only a strong and healthy plant at least 3-4 years old. Dividing the mother plant can be done in autumn and spring. First you need to thoroughly moisten the soil next to the flower, and then carefully dig out the bush. After this, divide the rhizomes into 2-3 parts using a sharp instrument, and transplant the plants to a permanent place.
For propagation, you can also collect goldenrod fruits yourself in the fall, but the seeds quickly lose their viability; they can be stored for up to 2 years.
Diseases and pests
If cultivation techniques and minimal care rules are followed, the plant rarely becomes infected with diseases and harmful insects. Among the diseases, the most dangerous are fungal infections - true and downy mildew, aster rust.
For treatment, copper-containing fungicides are used, for example, 1% solution of Bordeaux mixture, Khom, Oxychom. If signs of infection are detected, treatment is carried out in two stages with an interval of 10 days.
Among insects, slugs and caterpillars are dangerous for goldenrod. They are difficult to control because they have low sensitivity to insecticides.
First, it is advisable to reduce the population mechanically (remove it by hand or scald the soil with boiling water), and then carry out a complete treatment of all parts of the plant and soil with any complex preparation. Suitable for this purpose: Aktara, Actellik or Intavir.
Conclusion
- Goldenrod, or golden rod, is a perennial herbaceous plant, used as part of a decorative single or group planting.
- In floriculture, 20 varieties are used, which differ in bush height, characteristics and flowering period.
- Caring for goldenrod is very simple. The plant does not need regular watering or fertilizing. It is important to trim flower stalks and thin out planting in a timely manner.
- In a garden, the golden rod can be propagated using seeds, cuttings and dividing the rhizome.
At the end of summer, in garden plots you can notice a sunny plant of bright yellow color with small flowers collected in a pyramidal panicle. This is goldenrod. And this is not just a plant, but a honey plant and, moreover, a medicine that saves us from many diseases. People also call it “golden feather”, “golden rod”, living grass, and in Belarus “sumnik”. The distribution area covers forest zones of Western Siberia, Atlantic and Central Europe, the Caucasus, Scandinavia, and the Far East.
Description
The most popular are two varieties: Canadian goldenrod (photos below) and common goldenrod. Let's take a closer look at the appearance of each of them.
Goldenrod
This is a herbaceous plant, a perennial belonging to the Asteraceae family. Basically, it prefers to grow in clearings, thickets of bushes, forest edges, river banks, and hilly slopes. In adulthood, the height of the golden feather reaches 0.8-1 m.
The root system is superficial, fleshy. There is a single erect stem, sometimes colored reddish. The top of the plant branches, although the stem itself is practically not covered with foliage. The latter has an alternate arrangement, a serrated edge and a sharp and oblong-elliptical shape. What is noteworthy is that the bagel has slight pubescence throughout its entire area.
The plant is poisonous!
At the end of summer from July to September, racemose or paniculate inflorescences are formed at the top of the stem, including a large number of bright yellow flowers. At the end of flowering, from August to October, a fruit is formed containing ribbed cylindrical seeds with a tuft.
Goldenrod
This plant species also belongs to the perennial forms of Compositae. It is found mainly along roads, in clearings, swamps, forest edges, river and lake banks. As for the soil, the favorite place is moderately moist, but at the same time the plant develops well in slightly moist and even swampy areas.
The root is short, taproot. The stem is identical to the previous variety of goldenrod, only it is colored in tones from light to dark green, and the height of the plant reaches 1.4 m. There is also slight hairiness. The leaves are linear-lanceolate in shape, alternately located on the stem, and at the bottom they have serrated edges and a short petiole, and closer to the top they are sessile and entire.
Flowering begins with the blooming of bright yellow small (3-5 mm) bisexual buds and the further formation of a cone-shaped panicle up to 20 cm. In the middle of the panicle the flowers are tubular in shape, and at the edges they are false-ligulate. At the end of flowering, narrow-cylindrical fruits are formed in the form of a ribbed achene with a white tuft.
Hybrid goldenrod
There is such a variety of the plant, but it is less popular. It is distinguished by its compact size and beautiful foliage. It was this specimen that gave birth to other varieties, such as goldtanne, spatgold, fearlenkron, perkeo.
Goldenrod: planting and care (with photo of the plant)
In order for the plant to please the eye with its bright flowering, you need to properly care for the plant during the growth period.
For planting, it is best to choose places well lit by sunlight. But even in light shade, the golden feather will grow beautifully. But you should know that this affects flowering differently: the brighter the lighting, the earlier and more abundant it is. It is worth adding that the plant tolerates frost well.
It is preferable to plant the plant on fertile loam, so the flowering will be much more magnificent. But you can also plant in heavy, poor soils. A slight drought is not a problem for the bagger. However, for best flowering, you should water it regularly.
In summer, watering should be plentiful.
Goldenrod needs to be fertilized twice per year. With the onset of spring, these are fertilizers of a complex composition with a 10-20% content. But in the autumn, fertilizing with preparations with a nitrogen content of no more than 10% or without it at all is needed.
In spring, as well as from the beginning of summer, weak shoots need to be removed from bushes. This will stimulate new growth and flowering. Before winter, the plant should be prepared. To do this, the entire earthly part is completely cut off.
Goldenrod can be left in one place for no more than 10 years. Afterwards, the middle of the bushes thins out and will need to be renewed by planting new specimens.
Reproduction
You can increase the number of copies in several ways:
- Planting bushes in spring or summer.
- By cuttings. To do this, in the summer, a pair of young shoots are separated, dividing the root system. You can also trim the top of a long annual shoot and root it later.
- Another way is to trim the shoots of the bush during flowering. This will stimulate dormant buds and give rise to new shoots.
- Seminal. The collected planting material is sown in the ground at 18–22°C. After 2-3 weeks you can observe the first shoots. It is worth noting that the seeds, thanks to their tufts, scatter around and give new growth, gradually turning into thickets. To avoid this, young shoots must be removed and panicles must be trimmed after flowering to prevent the seeds from ripening.
Diseases and pests
In hot weather, due to the strong thickening of the bushes, the plant is often affected by powdery mildew. To prevent this, the bushes should be thinned regularly, removing a third of the sprouts. You should not be zealous in adding nitrogenous fertilizers. Their excess also provokes the appearance of the disease.
What is noteworthy is that goldenrod is not affected by pests.
Due to its brightness, the golden rod is widely used in group and solitary plantings, for mixborders, edgings, and as a decoration for border fences. Low-height varieties look great in rock garden containers on terraces or balconies.
Medicinal properties and contraindications of goldenrod
In medicine, preference is given to the Canadian or common bagel. Let's look at the medicinal effects of each.
Medicinal properties of common goldenrod
For treatment, above-ground parts of the plant are used, in particular foliage and panicles. The root system is also used, but much less frequently. For harvesting, the above-ground part is taken in the summer during the flowering period, and the underground part - in the fall.
The plant and all medicinal infusions, decoctions and other remedies prepared from it have:
- Antibacterial and antioxidant effect.
- Due to the presence of flavonoids, capillary permeability decreases.
- In some cases, it is included in the fees recommended for the treatment of prostate adenoma and impotence.
- Effectiveness was noted for stones of oxalate and urate nature.
- It has a diuretic effect, therefore it is effectively used for problems with the bladder and kidneys.
- Anti-inflammatory and vascular strengthening properties.
- It is successfully used in the treatment of cystitis, chronic prostatitis, and urethritis.
- Antifungal properties, which makes it possible to treat thrush.
Goldenrod is contraindicated for use in phosphate stones because it has the ability to increase urine pH.
Common bagel is also used in folk medicine, for example, for indigestion, gout, rheumatism, and in the treatment of boils. In the latter case, the leaves of the plant are used as a remedy if they are applied to the sore spot.
Medicinal properties of Canadian goldenrod
This variety also uses the above-ground part, which is harvested as soon as the flowers bloom.
The collection of medicinal raw materials is carried out during the flowering period (at the initial stage). To do this, the top 30-40 cm are cut off from the shoots. Further preparation differs from the usual golden feather. The stems are removed from the cut tops and only the panicles and leaves are dried. Next, they are sent to the shade to dry at a temperature of no more than 35-40ºС, placed in a thin layer on a substrate.
Do not delay collecting the material, otherwise the flowers will become very fluffy when drying.
Medicinal products are prepared from the prepared raw materials, which are used for the same diseases as ordinary bagel. This list also includes the fight against whooping cough, enuresis, bronchial asthma, and various skin problems.
Now you are familiar with the beneficial properties of goldenrod, contraindications and care for it. If you follow all the recommendations, you will be able to beautifully arrange your site, making it vibrant and bright yellow, and you will also be able to improve your health. However, do not forget to consult your doctor first.
Autumn honey plant goldenrod - video
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