Species prairie ironweed

prairie ironweed

Vernonia fasciculata

Prairie Ironweed (Vernonia fasciculata) is an impressive member of the Asteraceae family, with its bright lavender flowers displaying a unique radial symmetry. This perennial native to much of North America is hardy, drought-tolerant, and easily adapted to most soils. It's capable of growing up to four feet tall in its blooming season, usually in late summer to early fall. Its long lasting blooms attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, making it a great addition to any landscape. It also makes a great cut flower, adding beauty and texture to indoor arrangements.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Cutting,Division,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 9

Flowers:

Purple Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Soil:

Sandy Loamy Clay

Fruits:

brown,black Fruits Ready In

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Prairie ironweed should be watered thoroughly once a week during spring and summer. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, and reduce watering to every other week during fall and winter. Do not let the soil become soggy as it can cause root rot and other diseases. Monitor the plant's moisture needs and adjust accordingly, as weather, ambient temperature, and soil type all affect water needs.

sunlight

Prairie ironweed (Vernonia fasciculata) does best in direct sunlight, as it typically grows in open areas such as prairies and other open sunny habitats. It thrives when it gets at least 5 to 6 hours of direct sunlight a day, preferably in the mid-afternoon when temperatures are warmest. If possible, the plant should get at least 10 hours of direct sunlight for optimal growth, although a few hours of filtered sunlight throughout the day can still be beneficial. Avoid placing Prairie ironweed in deep shade, as it will not be able to thrive or flower properly.

pruning

Prairie ironweed (Vernonia fasciculata) should only be pruned in late winter or early spring just before the new growth appears. Remove up to 1 third of the old, woody stems to encourage new, more vigorous growth. Take care to remove the oldest canes and any that are crossing over each other, and reduce crossing branches to create a neat, airy shape. Make sure to make the cuts at the base of the stems, just above where the new growth emerges.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit

Harvesting of Vernonia fasciculata typically begins in late summer, usually in August or September.

Starts Flowering

Vernonia fasciculata typically starts flowering in July.

Harvest Fruit

Harvesting of Vernonia fasciculata typically begins in late summer, usually in August or September.

Hardiness Map