giant ironweed
Vernonia gigantea
USDA zones5 to 9
SunHandles full sun to full shade
WaterHandles moderate to wet soil
Size5 to 8 feet tall3 to 6 feet wide
- Habit
- Herb
- Bloom season
- Summer, autumn
- Bloom color
- Rose purple
- Foliage color
- Green
- Soil types
- Sand, loam, clay, chalk
- Soil pH
- Acid, alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Giant ironweed (Vernonia gigantea) is a perennial for borders, meadows, rain gardens, and pollinator gardens. It is hardy to USDA zone 5, or down to -20°F (-29°C). This plant likes full sun to full shade and average to wet soil of most types. Rose purple flowers open in loose clusters on tall, erect stems, and bees visit the blooms. Deer tend to pass it by. The common name refers to the toughness of the stem.
Pairs well with Joe Pye weed, Indian grass, and Cardinal flower.
Native range
Eastern United States.