prairie ironweed
Vernonia fasciculata
USDA zones3 to 9
SunHandles full sun to full shade
WaterHandles moderate to wet soil
Size2 to 4 feet tall1.5 to 3 feet wide
- Habit
- Herb
- Bloom season
- Summer, autumn
- Bloom color
- Purple
- Soil types
- Loam, clay
- Soil pH
- Acid, alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Prairie ironweed (Vernonia fasciculata) is a perennial for borders, meadows, and rain gardens. It is hardy to USDA zone 3, or down to -40°F (-40°C). This plant likes full sun to full shade and average to wet, loamy or clay soil. Deer tend to browse other plants first. Rose-purple flowers form dense sprays that attract butterflies and bees. It spreads aggressively and needs competition, so skip it for small spaces.
Pairs well with Smooth aster, Indian grass, and Royal fern.
Native range
South-central Canada to central and eastern United States.