Solidago spathulata aka Coast Goldenrod

Solidago spathulata belongs to Asteraceae, the daisy family. It is a perennial, so it lives for more than one year. People call it coast goldenrod or creeping goldenrod. Its native range runs from western Oregon to eastern California. It grows in a temperate climate. Reports place it on coastal dunes and at inland and alpine sites. These sites span both the shore and the mountains.

The plant grows fast and reaches about 2 feet (0.6 metres). It spreads rather than forming a narrow, upright shape. Its leaves add interest in beds and borders. It bears yellow flowers from June to September. Each flower has both male and female organs. Insects pollinate the flowers, and the plant draws wildlife. Its small seeds take time to gather.

Give it soil with a fair nutrient level that holds moisture. It grows in full sun or part shade. Sand, loam and heavy clay can all suit it. It accepts slightly acid, neutral and slightly alkaline soil. It can also cope with winds from the coast. Reports of its hardiness need care. PFAF lists USDA zones 4–9. Yet its text gives a lower limit of 14–23°F (−10 to −5°C). That same account warns against planting it in Britain's colder areas. These claims give a mixed view of how much cold it can stand.

Grow it in borders, as ground cover or in woodland gardens. It can also serve as a specimen plant. PFAF says it draws ladybirds, lacewings and hoverflies. These insects help keep garden pests in check. Its strong growth can use up the soil's nutrients. The source gives mixed views of its spread, too. One part calls it invasive; another says it has no weed potential. It names no specific pests or diseases. Sow seed in spring and do not let the compost dry out. Divide plants in spring or autumn once they are established.

PFAF lists several food uses but gives a low edibility rating. You can cook the leaves and flowering stems. People have also used leaves and flowers for tea. Seeds can thicken soups, but their small size makes them slow to gather. The source lists no known hazards; this does not prove safety. It notes traditional uses of flowering stems as antiseptics and for wound care. It also lists leaf preparations used for mumps. These reports do not prove that the treatments work. The whole plant yields mustard, orange and brown dyes.