VERNONIA NOVEBORACENSIS

Ironweed

Plant Type-Perennial

Hardiness- ZONE 4-8

Mature Size-Height- 3 - 4 Ft Width- 1 -2 Ft

Flower Color - Purple Shades

Description- New York Iron Weed is tall and upright with strong stems that are covered with narrow dark green leaves. This aggressive grower bursts into bloom in August with deep purple, aster-like flowers. The fluffy haze of deep purple is often covered by a parade of butterflies in late summer. Other beneficial insects feed on the nectar and the pollen. It is deer resistant, easy to grow and and disease resistant. Plant in full sun. Tolerates a wide range of soils and conditions, but prefers rich, slightly acidic soils that remain moist. Remove flower heads before seed develops to prevent unwanted self-seeding. If you want shorter plants, cut back stems nearly to the ground in late spring Leave the stems standing through winter to provide cover for beneficial insects

Attributes-Showy purple flowers in late summer

Attracts butterflies

Deer resistant

Native Perennial

Good source of pollen for beneficial insects

Old stems and flower heads provide winter cover for beneficial insects

Statuesque plants don't need staking

Great focal point in late summer

Tolerant of a wide range of soils and conditions