Ironweed Plant

Ironweed Plant for Sale (Vernonia Plant)

The Ironweed Plant (Vernonia Plant) gets its name for 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, or 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 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 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 who 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.

This Is How Your Plants Will Look upon Delivery

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.

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