Common Ironweed - Vernonia fasciculata
Common Ironweed - Vernonia fasciculata
Note: SCD does not ship plants, all orders are pick up only.
Common Ironweed (Vernonia fasciculata) is usually referred to simply as "Ironweed". This stately plant offers a large cluster of unusually brilliant purple flowers on top of 6' tall, unbranched stems; a sight to see late summer and into fall. Dark green, coarsely-toothed leaves add to the overall interest. It works well as a tall backdrop plant. The seeds are fluffy and brown and disperse nicely in the wind. Ironweed can be started outdoors with fall planting or after two months of moist-cold stratification. It will thrive in moister soils with full to partial sun. Ironweed is a host plant for the American Painted Lady butterfly and is listed as having special value to native bees.