Giant Ironweed

Vernonia gigantea

Available Sizes: 1G

Max Size: 9′ tall x 3′ wide
Average Size: 5′ tall x 2′ wide

Loam, Sand, Clay
Full Sun, Part Shade
Usually Moist, Somewhat Moist, Moist to Dry
Low tolerance of salt wind but not direct spray

AKA: Tall Ironweed

This tall ironweed makes a perfect background for a moist wildflower garden or an area of seasonal flooding. It is winter dormant but blooms in the summer with bright purple flowers. It attracts butterflies and native bees, and is the larval host for Spring Azure butterflies. Native bees nest in the hollow stems so be sure to wait to prune until early-late spring; we also recommend putting the debris in an out-of-the-way pile to naturally decay rather than burning, composting, etc.  To keep from getting taller than you’d like, you can cut it back in spring to encourage a bushier habit. If you would like to encourage repeat, prolonged blooming, deadhead spent flowers. Easily reseeds.