Overview of Solidago rigida L. ssp. glabrata (E.L. Braun) Heard & Semple
Solidago rigida L. ssp. glabrata (E.L. Braun) Heard & Semple is a subspecies of Solidago rigida, a member of the Aster family (Asteraceae). It is a perennial herbaceous plant native to North America, specifically the central and eastern parts of the United States and southeastern Canada.
Common Names
The common names of Solidago rigida L. ssp. glabrata include Stiff Goldenrod and Flat-topped Goldenrod.
Appearance
Stiff Goldenrod grows up to 6 feet tall with a spread of up to 3 feet. It has smooth, green stems with alternating leaves that are lance-shaped and toothed. The flowers are small and yellow and are densely packed into a flat-topped cluster that can be up to 1 foot across. The plant blooms from late summer to early fall.
Uses
Stiff Goldenrod has been used for its medicinal properties by Native Americans. The plant has diaphoretic, astringent, and antipyretic properties. It has been used to treat fevers, respiratory illnesses, and sore throats.
Besides the medicinal uses, Stiff Goldenrod also provides food and habitat for pollinators such as bees, wasps, and butterflies. Furthermore, it is an ornamental plant that can be used in gardens and naturalized landscapes to provide late-season color and interest.
Growth Conditions for Solidago rigida L. ssp. glabrata
Although Solidago rigida L. ssp. glabrata is a hardy plant, it still requires certain growth conditions to thrive. Some of the most important growth conditions for this plant are:
Light
Solidago rigida L. ssp. glabrata is a sun-loving plant that flourishes in full sun. It needs at least six hours of direct sunlight every day to grow and bloom properly. Lack of sunlight can cause the plants to grow tall and spindly, with few blooms. So, it is essential to plant Solidago rigida L. ssp. glabrata in a location that receives plenty of sunlight.
Temperature
These plants are known for their adaptability to a wide range of temperatures. It is tolerant of both hot and cold conditions, making it an excellent plant for many regions. However, it still prefers warm temperatures between 60-77°F. If the temperature drops below freezing, the plant will need to be covered with a layer of mulch or kept in a greenhouse.
Soil
Solidago rigida L. ssp. glabrata thrives in well-drained soils with a pH of 6.0-7.0. It prefers soils that are rich in nutrients and organic matter. The plant cannot tolerate waterlogged soil or soil that is too dry. It is best to plant this species in loamy soil that is moist but well-drained. The plant can also tolerate soils that are sandy or rocky.
By providing the right growth conditions, you can help Solidago rigida L. ssp. glabrata to grow and thrive, ensuring that it produces beautiful blooms year after year.
Cultivation methods
Solidago rigida L. ssp. glabrata is a tough perennial plant that grows well in well-drained soil with full sun exposure. Before planting, remove weeds and rocks from the soil and loosen it to a depth of about 8 inches. Dig a hole twice as wide and deep as the root ball. Plant the root ball at the same depth as it was in the container and fill the hole with soil. Water the plant thoroughly.
Watering needs
Water Solidago rigida L. ssp. glabrata deeply once a week during the growing season. Check the soil moisture level before watering by inserting your finger into the soil up to the knuckle. If the soil feels dry, it's time to water the plant. Reduce watering during the winter months when the plant goes dormant.
Fertilization
Apply a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10 to Solidago rigida L. ssp. glabrata in early spring just before new growth emerges. Use a granular fertilizer and sprinkle it around the base of the plant. Water the plant after applying the fertilizer to help it absorb the nutrients. Avoid over-fertilization, which can promote weak growth and susceptibility to pests and diseases.
Pruning
Prune Solidago rigida L. ssp. glabrata after flowering to remove dead or damaged stems. Cut the stem down to the base of the plant. If you want to prevent the plant from spreading too much, prune it back by a third in early summer before the flower buds form. Wear gloves when pruning, as the plant can cause skin irritation.
Propagation of Solidago rigida L. ssp. glabrata
Solidago rigida L. ssp. glabrata or Stiff Goldenrod is a North American native plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is a perennial plant that grows well in full sun and well-draining soil. Solidago rigida can be propagated by various methods.
Division
Division is the most common way to propagate Solidago rigida. The plant can be divided in early spring or late fall. The clump should be lifted, and the roots must be teased apart gently. Once they are separated, each clump can be planted into prepared soil.
Seed Propagation
Solidago rigida can be grown from seed. The seeds must be stratified for two to three months before planting. They should be sown in early spring in a container. The container should be covered with plastic wrap, and kept in a warm and bright place until the seeds germinate. Once they have germinated, the container should be moved to a cooler and brighter location.
Cuttings
Propagation of Solidago rigida can also be done by taking cuttings. Cuttings should be taken in early summer when the plant is actively growing. The cutting should be around 4-6 inches in length and should have at least two nodes. Remove the leaves from the lower nodes, and dip the stem into rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix and water it thoroughly. The cutting should be kept in a bright and warm place until it starts rooting.
Disease Management for Solidago rigida L. ssp. glabrata
Solidago rigida L. ssp. glabrata is generally a healthy plant, but it is susceptible to some common diseases that can cause significant damage to the plant. Some of the common diseases that affect Solidago rigida L. ssp. glabrata include:
- Leaf Spot: This is a fungal disease that appears as circular or irregular-shaped spots on the leaves. To manage it, remove and destroy infected leaves and avoid overhead watering to prevent the spread of the fungus.
- Powdery Mildew: This is a fungal disease that appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves. To manage it, prune out infected branches, increase air circulation, and avoid overhead watering.
- Rust: This is a fungal disease that appears as rust-colored spots on the leaves. To manage it, remove and destroy infected leaves, and avoid overhead watering.
Pest Management for Solidago rigida L. ssp. glabrata
Some common pests that can infest Solidago rigida L. ssp. glabrata include:
- Aphids: These are soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the plants, causing stunted growth. To manage them, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge the aphids or apply insecticidal soap.
- Spider Mites: These are tiny insects that feed on the plant by piercing the leaves and sucking the sap. They can cause yellowing of the leaves and a decrease in plant vigor. To manage them, spray the plants with a strong jet of water or apply insecticidal soap.
- Caterpillars: These are the larvae of various species of moths and butterflies that feed on the leaves of the plant. To manage them, pick them off by hand or apply Bacillus thuringiensis, a microbial insecticide that selectively targets caterpillars.
