Solidago rigida (Stiff goldenrod)

Solidago rigida, or Stiff Goldenrod, is a prairie-dwelling species with a unique growing form atypical of most goldenrods. Thick stems, broad rough-textured leaves, and dense, flat-topped clusters of yellow flowers. Unlike many goldenrods, it remains upright and rigid when in bloom. New leaves are often large and oval-shaped, with foliage  bearing a distinctly leathery and downy or rough feel.

 

Stiff goldenrod primarily occurs in the midwest states, but sparce populations do occur naturally in remnants of prairies that once covered parts of Virginia. As such it is adapted to grow in grasslands with heavy competition, poor soils and little water; its odd form and pubescence are an adaption to growing in harsh, dry conditions.

 

Stiff goldenrod supports a large variety of insects, especially native bees, soldier beetles, and butterflies such as the Monarch. In particular it seems to be a major draw for beneficial wasps. In fact during a pollinator activity study by Penn State, Solidago rigida was tied with Pycnanthemum muticum (Blunt mountain-mint) for attracting the largest diversity of pollinating insects among other plant species trialed.

 

It's also a host plant for several moth caterpillars and specialist goldenrod-feeding insects. The fluffy seeds provide some food value to finches and other small birds. Because it tolerates drought, poor soils, and disturbance, it’s commonly used in prairie plantings and is especially useful in open, dry habitats where other goldenrods may struggle. Companion plants to consider would be Parthenium integrifolium (Wild quinine), Sorghastrum nutans (Indiangrass), Schizachyrium scoparium (Little Bluestem), and Liatris pilosa.

 

It does not by rhizomes or reseed heavily like some other Solidago species—making it easier to manage in mixed plantings. Does not like poorly draining soil, so in clay some amendment may be needed. Planting in dense, fertile garden soil may cause excessive growth and flopping. 

 

Synonymous with Solidago rigida var. rigida, or Oligoneuron rigidum var. rigidum.