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Ironweed Plant Perennial
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Ironweed Plant

Ironweed Plant

Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds

Cleanses and purifies water naturally

Beautiful, elegant blooms in spring

$6.99

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Ironweed Plant for Sale

The Ironweed perennial (Vernonia Plant) gets its name from its tough stem, stuck deep in the ground and rising straight up like an iron pole. The sturdy plants can grow from three feet tall up to seven feet tall, depending on the variety.

This adds stunning visual interest to your garden with its skyscraping blossoms. It is native to the Great Lakes region of the United States and Canada, and its resiliency makes it a fantastic addition to any native or wildflower garden.

Ironweed Plant Details

Family: Asteraceae

Light Requirement: Full Sun, Partial Shade

Height: 3-7 ft

Spread: 1-3 ft

Growth Rate: Rapid

Soil Preference: Moist, Flood-tolerant

Bloom Time: Late summer

Flower Color: Purple

Wildlife Value: Butterflies, Pollinators

Notable Characteristics of Purple Ironweed Plant

The Ironweed Plant has a thick, twig-like stem and thin brown branches. Its long, thin, pointed leaves grow in pairs all the way up the plant to the blossom. The flower has short, fluffy petals that stick straight up out of the plant, making a purple, moss-like carpet on the top of the plant.

It blooms in the late summer, and its hardy blooms last for six weeks or more. It crops up near streams, open woodlands, and meadows, or even in disturbed land, given its resilient nature.

Landscape and Maintenance of Ironweed Plant

This beautiful and hardy plant grows easily in many climatic environments and is even flood-tolerant, but prefers full sun and moist soil. It is an aggressive self-seeder and spreads rapidly. The Ironweed Plant also attracts a variety of native bees and butterflies, which help to pollinate.

It actually is the host plant for the larvae of the American Painted Lady butterfly and the Ironweed Borer Moth. It contributes to the native plant kingdom and naturalizes easily while also being an eye-catching beauty. It is the perfect way to decorate your native or wildflower garden.

How tall do ironweed plants get?

Ironweed plants typically grow 4 to 6 feet tall, creating a bold vertical accent in gardens. Their tall stems are topped with clusters of vibrant purple blooms. They attract butterflies and pollinators, adding both color and life to any landscape.

Does ironweed come back every year?

Yes, ironweed is a hardy perennial that comes back every year. It grows stronger each season, producing taller stems and more blooms. Its long-lasting flowers make it a dependable favorite for pollinator and native gardens.

Where is the best place to plant ironweed?

Ironweed grows best in full sun with moist, well-drained soil. It thrives in meadows, garden borders, and naturalized areas. With sunlight and space, it produces vibrant purple blooms that attract butterflies all season long.

When does vernonia ironweed bloom?

It starts blooming toward the end of summer and continues for several weeks. The clusters of purple flowers add strong color to garden borders and natural areas during that time.

Can the vernonia plant grow in wet areas?

Yes, the vernonia plant attracts butterflies and bees all season. Its bright purple blooms give pollinators plenty of nectar and help support a healthy garden ecosystem.

Exposure

It blossoms in complete sun to partial shade and prefers at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day for optimal growth and abundant flowering, although it may also grow in shadier spots.

Height at Maturity

Over 12"

Usage

Pollinator Plant

Shipped As

Bare-root

Ships

USPS

Planting Zones

3-9

How To Grow & Care Tips

How to Grow and Care for Bare Root Perennials, Tubers, and Bulbs

Bare root perennials, tubers, and bulbs are an easy and economical way to jumpstart your garden with lasting beauty. These dormant plants should be planted in early spring or fall while the soil is cool and workable. Before planting, soak bare roots in water for 1–2 hours to rehydrate them. Choose a location based on the plant’s light needs—most flowering types prefer full sun, while others thrive in partial shade.

For bare root perennials, dig a shallow hole and spread the roots out naturally, ensuring the crown is level with the soil surface. For tubers and bulbs, plant with the pointed side facing up at a depth about two to three times their height. Cover with soil, gently press down, and water thoroughly.

Keep soil consistently moist (not soggy) until new growth appears. Add mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds, but avoid covering the crown or bulb tops. Once established, these plants require little maintenance—just seasonal watering, occasional dividing, and deadheading or pruning as needed. With proper care, they’ll return and thrive year after year.

Caring Tips

How do I care for my Ironweed Plant?

Each box contains detailed care instructions and information about your product. But here's the basics.

Care Tips

Ironweed plant thrives in moist, well-drained soil and requires regular watering. Ensure the soil remains consistently damp, especially during hot weather. Mulch near the plant to maintain moisture and prevent weeds. Prune spent flowers to promote new blooms.

Light Requirements

It blossoms in complete sun to partial shade and prefers at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day for optimal growth and abundant flowering, although it may also grow in shadier spots.

Hardy Planting Zones

7 • 8 • 9