Vernonia glauca – Upland Ironweed

Shorter and more tolerant of dryish soils than New York Ironweed, this plant is a great choice for smaller gardens or ones with very well-drained soils. Typical deep purple upright flower clusters are showy in the mid to late summer garden and attract butterflies. Native from New Jersey to Kentucky south to  Mississippi and Georgia. It’s stronghold is Maryland, Virginia and North Carolina.  Combine with Asters, Orange Coneflower, Sideoats Grama, Goldenrods, Butterflyweed and Blazing Stars.