EN
Solidago species are one of the most widespread invasive species in Europe. In Central Europe, vegetation dominated by alien goldenrods can occupy vast areas. Their presence causes a decrease in the biodiversity level of numerous groups of organisms (plants, birds and insects). Alien Solidago also disturb biogeochemical cycles, as well as the primary productivity in infested ecosystems. In Central Europe, four alien Solidago species are considered as naturalized plants: late goldenrod (Solidago altissima L.), Canadian goldenrod (S. canadensis L.), tall goldenrod (S. gigantea Aiton), and grass-leaved goldenrod (S. graminifolia (L.) Elliot. = Euthamia graminifolia (L.) Nutt.). To analyse the dynamics of the growth and flowering of Solidago species, an experiment was conducted in which the goldenrods were planted in pots. We examined the life history traits, which are treated as being strongly connected with the invasive abilities of these species. The height, number of ramets and percentage of flowered plants were noted at ten-day intervals from May to November over a period of four years. Two native species, often co-occurring with alien goldenrods, were analysed for comparison: European goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea L.) and common tansy (Tanacetum vulgare L.). The analysed species reached their maximal height during the second and third years of the experiment. The highest ramets were noted in the case of Solidago altissima, S. canadensis and S. gigantea. A group of lower plants consisted of Solidago graminifolia, together with the native species S. virgaurea and T. vulgare. The number of ramets formed by S. graminifolia was more than two times larger than in the case of other species. All of the analysed species flowered during the time of observation but, grass-leaved goldenrod, was the only one among the alien species which flowered in all pots and 100% of individuals produced mature seeds. Its phenology (early flowering and seed ripening) was more similar to native species’ than to other alien Solidago. Our results suggest Solidago graminifolia has strong competitive abilities; however, its range is very limited. The reasons for the slow spread of this species in Europe – other than competitive limitations – should be considered.