This is a native plant, but it is not available in the 2026 Wild Ones plant sale.
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New York Ironweed
Vernonia noveboracensis
PerennialNew York Ironweed
Vernonia noveboracensis
Tap to flip backGrowing Conditions
Light
Full Sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Clay, Loam
Size
4-7'
Bloom
Purple, Jul–Sep
Why Grow It
Pollinator Magnet
Attracts many types of pollinators
Rain Garden
Thrives in wet areas & manages runoff
Did You Know?
The name 'Ironweed' refers to the incredibly tough, wiry stems that persist through winter and are nearly impossible to break by hand.
The rusty-brown seed heads that follow the purple flowers provide winter architectural interest and food for songbirds.
Paired with goldenrod, Ironweed creates the classic purple-and-gold fall prairie color combination that defines the autumn landscape.
Wildlife Value
🦋
Swallowtail Butterflies
Favorite late-summer nectar source for many species
🐝
Bumble Bees
Deep purple flowers provide rich nectar rewards
🐦
American Goldfinch
Eats seeds from fluffy seed heads in autumn
Good Companions
🌸 Joe-Pye Weed
🌾 Indian Grass
💜 New England Aster
🌼 Sweet Black-eyed Susan
Planting Guide
- Plant in full sun in moist to wet rich soil.
- Space 2-3 feet apart; grows 5-8 feet tall.
- Cut back in late spring for shorter, bushier plants.
Plant Details
Made with ♥ by Lu Li