Ironweed

Vernonia gigantea

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Type

Trees, Shrubs, & Vines

Forbs & Flowers

Grasses, Sedges, & Rushes

Conditions

Sun

Shade

Wet

Dry

Land Use

Obligate Wetland Plant almost always occurs in wetlands.

Facultative Wetland Usually occurs in wetlands but may occur in non-wetlands.

Facultative Plant occurs both in wetlands and in non-wetlands.

Facultative Upland Usually occurs in wetlands but may occur in non-wetlands.

Obligate Upland Plant almost always occurs in non-wetlands.

Very adaptable and hardy plant. Prefers full sun and dry to moist soil. May need support depending on height. Overall plant height may be reduced by cutting back plant stems in late spring. Remove flower heads before seed develops to avoid any unwanted self- seeding. Cut back in early to late winter.
Attracts bees and butterflies. This species' name refers to the very strong fibers of its stem.

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Details

Plant Type

Forbs & Flowers

Conditions

Sun

Wet

Dry

Native to Kentucky?

Native to Kentucky

Land Use

Facultative Occurs both in wetlands and in non-wetlands.

Project Uses

Bioswale / Rain Garden / Green Dry Basin

Upland Restoration

Urban / Tree Box

Wetland Restoration

Tendency to Spread

High

Height (ft)

5-10

Flower Color

Purple

Fall Showy?

Flowering Time

Aug-Sept

Salinity Tolerance

Moderate Tolerance