California Goldenrod
Solidago velutina subsp. californica
Also listed as Aster californicus, Solidago californica
Climate Match for your location
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A native California perennial with velvety stems and bright yellow flower clusters that bloom late summer through fall. Drought-tolerant and excellent for naturalistic gardens and pollinators.
Why grow it
California goldenrod offers reliable late-season bloom when many native perennials have finished flowering, making it valuable for extending pollinator availability into fall. Compared to other Solidago species, this subspecies is adapted specifically to California's Mediterranean climate and requires minimal supplemental water once established. Its velvety stems and dense flower clusters provide visual interest in naturalistic plantings without the aggressive spreading behavior that makes some goldenrod species problematic in garden settings.
Watch out for
This plant may self-seed readily in favorable conditions; deadhead spent flowers if you want to limit volunteer seedlings. In areas with high humidity or poor air circulation, the dense foliage can create conditions favorable to fungal issues, so avoid overcrowding and ensure adequate spacing.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
Native to the United States
Native Range
California
Native to: California, Oregon
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Herb
Soft non-woody plants of the field layer.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A native California perennial with velvety stems and bright yellow flower clusters that bloom late summer through fall. Drought-tolerant and excellent for naturalistic gardens and pollinators.
Climate Match for your location
See how well California Goldenrod grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
California goldenrod offers reliable late-season bloom when many native perennials have finished flowering, making it valuable for extending pollinator availability into fall. Compared to other Solidago species, this subspecies is adapted specifically to California's Mediterranean climate and requires minimal supplemental water once established. Its velvety stems and dense flower clusters provide visual interest in naturalistic plantings without the aggressive spreading behavior that makes some goldenrod species problematic in garden settings.
Watch out for
This plant may self-seed readily in favorable conditions; deadhead spent flowers if you want to limit volunteer seedlings. In areas with high humidity or poor air circulation, the dense foliage can create conditions favorable to fungal issues, so avoid overcrowding and ensure adequate spacing.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
Native to the United States
Native Range
California
Native to: California, Oregon
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Herb
Soft non-woody plants of the field layer.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
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