Missouri Goldenrod: A Southwestern Native Worth Considering
If you’re looking to add some native charm to your southwestern garden, Missouri goldenrod (Solidago missouriensis var. tenuissima) might just be the golden ticket you’ve been searching for. This perennial wildflower brings authentic regional character to landscapes while supporting local ecosystems.
What Makes This Goldenrod Special?
Missouri goldenrod var. tenuissima is a native forb—essentially a non-woody flowering plant—that calls the American Southwest home. Unlike some of its more aggressive goldenrod cousins, this variety has earned its place as a legitimate native species rather than an unwelcome garden crasher. You might also see it listed under its scientific synonym, Solidago tenuissima, but don’t let the fancy names intimidate you.
Where Does It Naturally Grow?
This particular variety of Missouri goldenrod has claimed its stake in three southwestern states: Arizona, Colorado, and New Mexico. Its natural range tells us a lot about what this plant expects from its growing conditions—think high desert charm and mountain meadow resilience.
Why Consider Planting Missouri Goldenrod?
There are several compelling reasons to give this native a spot in your garden:
- True native credentials: Unlike many garden plants, this goldenrod actually belongs in southwestern landscapes
- Pollinator magnet: Goldenrods are renowned for attracting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects
- Low maintenance potential: Native plants typically require less water and care once established
- Authentic regional character: Adds genuine local flavor to your landscape design
Garden Design Ideas
Missouri goldenrod var. tenuissima works beautifully in several garden styles:
- Native plant gardens and restoration projects
- Xeriscape and drought-tolerant landscapes
- Meadow and prairie-style plantings
- Wildlife habitat gardens
- Naturalized areas where you want a wild look
Growing Conditions and Care
While specific growing information for this variety can be elusive, we can make educated guesses based on its native range and plant family characteristics:
- Sunlight: Likely prefers full sun to partial shade
- Water: Probably drought-tolerant once established, typical of southwestern natives
- Soil: Likely adaptable to various soil types, possibly preferring well-draining conditions
- Hardiness: Based on its range, probably suitable for USDA zones 4-8
The Reality Check
Here’s where we need to be honest: specific information about Solidago missouriensis var. tenuissima can be harder to find than a parking spot at the garden center on a sunny Saturday. This variety doesn’t seem to be widely cultivated or studied compared to other goldenrods. If you’re set on growing it, you might need to do some detective work to find seeds or plants from specialty native plant suppliers.
Getting Started
If you decide to pursue this native goldenrod:
- Contact local native plant societies or botanical gardens in Arizona, Colorado, or New Mexico
- Check with specialty native seed companies that focus on southwestern species
- Consider visiting areas where it grows naturally to observe its preferred conditions
- Start with seeds if plants aren’t available—many native plants are easier to establish from seed anyway
The Bottom Line
Missouri goldenrod var. tenuissima represents the kind of authentic native plant that can add genuine regional character to southwestern gardens. While it might not be the easiest plant to source, its native credentials and potential wildlife benefits make it worth considering for gardeners committed to true regional authenticity. Just be prepared for a bit of a treasure hunt to find it, and consider it an adventure in native plant gardening!
If this particular variety proves too elusive, don’t despair—there are other native goldenrods and southwestern wildflowers that can provide similar benefits with better availability. The key is choosing plants that truly belong in your local ecosystem.
