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The grand finale perennial of my growing season is always goldenrod (Solidago) ‘Wichita Mountains.’ The bright-yellow, upright flower plumes don’t start opening until mid-September and continue blooming until a hard frost or freeze.
The plants grow 24 to 36 inches tall and 18 to 30 inches wide. They are drought-resistant, deer-resistant and appreciate average, well-drained soil in full sun.
This year I also discovered that the flowers have a wonderful fragrance. I was planting bulbs nearby one day and couldn’t figure out where that sweet scent was coming from. It’s no wonder this plant attracts pollinators like mad.
‘Wichita Mountains’ is hardy in Zones 4-8. It makes a wonderful companion for fall-blooming asters or tall, red salvias.