This tall member of the Aster family features clusters of deep purple blooms in mid-summer and mid-fall. It naturalizes easily in average to loamy, moist to wet soils in full or part sun. If a shorter plant is desired, prune it back in spring to about 2 feet. Pruning plants to different heights can create an attractive, variable blooming effect.
Use in a rain garden, cottage garden, meadow, along streams or ponds or the back of the border.
Plant Characteristics:
Grows 5-8' tall.
Needs full or part sun.
Grows in a range of moist to wet soils, including loamy, average, and clay.
Wildlife Value:
Host plant for 22 species of Lepidotera larvae, including 4 specialist moths and wavy-lined emerald. Members of the genus Vernonia support the following specialized bee: melissodes denticulatus. Flowers attract butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. Songbirds eat the seeds.
Medicinal, Edible, and Other Uses:
Native Americans used the leaves to make tea for pain relief (childbirth, cramps, ulcers, hemorrhaging) via leaf/root teas, and as a blood tonic or mouthwash for loose teeth.
Resources:
North Carolina Extension
