Description
Prairie Ironweed (Vernonia fasciculata) is a striking native tallgrass prairie wildflower for pollinator projects, wet meadows, rain gardens, and naturalized native borders. Upright stems carry clusters of bold purple flowers from July through September, bringing late-season nectar for monarchs, swallowtails, and native bees.
Why Grow It
- Native tallgrass prairie perennial with clusters of bold purple flowers.
- Blooms July through September, adding late summer color when many native perennials are past peak.
- Nectar-rich flowers support monarchs, swallowtails, and native bees.
- Elegant 3-6 ft clumps suit meadows, rain gardens, pond edges, and habitat restoration.
- Prefers full sun and moist to medium soils.
Growing Information
| Botanical name | Vernonia fasciculata |
|---|---|
| Life cycle | Long-lived native perennial wildflower |
| Mature height | 3-6 ft. |
| Light | Full sun |
| Bloom window | July through September |
| Seed count | Approx. 50 seeds |
| Soil | Moist to medium soils |
| Sowing advice | Sow outdoors in late fall or winter, or cold stratify moist seed for about 60 days before spring sowing. |
| Spacing | 18-30 in. apart in meadow, rain garden, or pond-edge plantings |
| Germination | Best after cold stratification; keep evenly moist after sowing and allow natural variation. |
| Hardiness | Perennial in zones 3-8 |
Best For
- tallgrass prairie plantings
- wet meadows and rain gardens
- pond-edge native borders
- monarch and butterfly habitat
- late-season native bee nectar
Packet Details
Includes approx. 50 seeds. Store cool, dry, and dark until sowing. SeedCult source notes no pesticides, GMOs, or synthetic fertilizers.
FAQ
Does prairie ironweed need cold stratification?
Yes. The source recommends about 60 days of cold stratification to improve germination, or outdoor sowing in late fall or winter.
Where should I plant it?
Use prairie ironweed in full sun with moist to medium soil, especially in naturalized meadows, rain gardens, pond edges, and pollinator plantings.
How tall does it grow?
Prairie ironweed is described as forming upright clumps about 3-6 ft tall.
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