Also known as Upland Ironweed. Vibrant purple florets on tall stems dominate the fall landscape. While this species is shorter than other Ironweeds, it is still best planted with other tall plants as a screen, at the back of the garden, or in a meadow of complementary plants. It is also more drought tolerant than other Ironweeds. Many sources indicate this particular species is rare. Vernonia is one of the best attractors of butterflies that we’ve noticed. Blooms in late summer and fall. Full sun to part shade. Moist to dry soil. Space: 2 feet; Height: 5+ feet.

Photo credit of Monarch next to a Vernonia species: James St. John, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.