Common Ironweed (Vernonia fasciculata)

Common Ironweed (Vernonia fasciculata)

When everything else starts to fade in late summer, Common Ironweed steps up with striking, deep purple blooms held high (~6 feet) on strong stems. It's the kind of plant that anchors a planting and makes a statement, bringing a strong vertical presence without feeling bulky or out of sync with the rest of your space. Common Ironweed makes a great seasonal privacy screen or backdrop, especially in a sunny back corner of the garden.It thrives in wetter soils but handles average garden conditions just fine, especially with enough sun.

Growing Conditions
Light: Full sun to part sun
Soil: Medium to wet; thrives in moist, low-lying areas but adapts to average garden soil
Height: 4–6 feet
Spread: 2–3 feet
Zones: 3–7
Bloom time: July to September

Wildlife Value
Common Ironweed draws in a wide range of late-season pollinators, including monarchs, swallowtails, native bees, and skippers. It’s an especially important nectar source during the tail end of summer when options are running low. Host plant to the American Painted Lady (Vanessa virginiensis) and various moth species native to the upper Midwest.

Blooms Alongside: swamp milkweed (Asclepias incarnata), obedient plant (Physostegia virginiana), Stiff Goldenrod (Oligoneuron rigidum)