Giant Ironweed - Vernonia gigantea

You wouldn't know from the purple blooms, but Giant Ironweed is a member of the sunflower family. This USA native wildflower commonly beautifies roadsides, grasslands, and woodlands while inviting butterflies and bees with its attractive nectar. Giant Ironweed is a perennial that goes dormant in the winter. It flowers from late summer to early fall.

• Average mature height: 3 to 10 feet
• Light: full sun to part shade
• Soil: Well-drained
• Water: Medium to wet
• Zones: 5 to 8