VERNONIA NOVEBORACENSIS

New York Iron Weed is tall and upright with strong stems that are covered with narrow dark green leaves. This aggressive grower bursts into bloom in August with deep purple, aster-like flowers. The fluffy haze of deep purple is often covered by a parade of butterflies in late summer. Other beneficial insects feed on the nectar and the pollen. It is deer resistant, easy to grow and and disease resistant. Plant in full sun. Tolerates a wide range of soils and conditions, but prefers rich, slightly acidic soils that remain moist. Remove flower heads before seed develops to prevent unwanted self-seeding. If you want shorter plants, cut back stems nearly to the ground in late spring Leave the stems standing through winter to provide cover for beneficial insects