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Eupatorium maculatum (Joe Pye weed)

Eupatorium maculatum Photo/Illustration: Jennifer Benner


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Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Botanical Name: Eupatorium maculatum yew-pah-TOR-ee-um mak-yew-LAY-tum Common Name: Joe Pye weed Genus: Eupatorium
Large, flat-topped flowerheads in shades of purple add soft color and texture to the summer and fall garden. The leaves are purple-tinged on thick stems with maroon spots. Butterflies love this eastern U.S. native.
 Noteworthy characteristics: Grow this plant where its stature can be appreciated, in a mixed border or in wild or other naturalized areas. It prefers moist soil in full sun or partial shade.
 Care: Site in full sun or partial shade and moist soil.
 Propagation: Sow seed in a cold frame in spring; divide hardy species in spring.
 Problems: Rust, powdery mildew, white smut, Cercospora and Septoria leaf spot, Southern blight, snail, slugs.
Height 6 ft. to 10 ft.
Spread 3 ft. to 6 ft.
Growth Habit Clumps
Growth Pace Fast Grower
Light Full Sun to Part Shade
Moisture Medium Moisture
Maintenance Low
Characteristics Attracts Butterflies; Native; Showy Flowers
Bloom Time Fall; Summer
Flower Color Purple/ Lavender Flower
Uses Beds and Borders, Naturalizing
Style Cottage Garden, Meadow Garden
Seasonal Interest Summer Interest
Type Perennials

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