Plant Profile: Vernonia lettermanii

Ironweed is a striking perennial that grows upright in clumps and is indigenous to North America, belonging to the aster family. Its robust stems can take on a reddish hue, adorned with slender green leaves that lend it a graceful look. This plant is adaptable to various soil conditions and, once established, can endure both drought and occasional flooding. In mid to late summer, its vibrant purple flowers attract butterflies and bees.

While it is relatively rare in the wild, primarily found in Arkansas and Oklahoma, Ironweed is widely available at nurseries. The 'Iron Butterfly' cultivar is particularly favored. It thrives in native and pollinator gardens, flourishing in areas with full sun to partial shade.