Ironweed

Ironweed  (Vernonia)

Ironweed (Vernonia) is a large genus of which only a few are suitable for in the garden. From a distance they resemble Hemp Agrimony (Eupatorium), but close up, the flowers look like those of an Aster (Aster). Ironweed wants a place in the sun in a moist soil. It is good to mix some compost in the soil before planting and then annually give it another hand full every spring. Ironweed sits well in the back of the border with neighbours such as Goat's Beard (Aruncus), Sunflower (Helianthus), Mountain Fleece (Persicaria amplexicaulis) and Purple Moor Grass (Molinia arundinacea). Ironweed is slow to start in spring and it may take a few years to mature. Ironweed attracts many butterflies and also produces a good cut flower.