Boneset

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Eupatorium perfoliatum A large, hairy, clump-forming, perennial which typically occurs in wet soils in low woods, thickets, stream banks, meadows and prairies. Flat-topped clusters of small, fluffy, white flowers appear above the foliage in late summer to fall. Historically, boneset was commonly included in medical herb gardens and used as a folk medicine for treatment of flus, fevers, colds and a variety of other maladies. Though some authorities claim the name boneset refers to a former use of the plant to aid the healing process for broken bones, others claim that the name is in reference to the plant's use as a diaphoretic in the treatment of an 18th century influenza called break bone fever. All parts of the plant are quite toxic and bitter. Also commonly called thoroughwort. Many different insect species are attracted to the flowers as the nectar is relatively easy to access. Easily grown in average, medium to wet soils in full sun to dappled shade. Does well in both sandy and clay soils. Needs constant moisture. May flop and requires staking in rich, fertile soils. Height: 4'-6'Spread: 3'-4'Bloom: July-SeptemberLight: Full Sun-Dappled ShadeWater: Medium-HighZone: 3-8Origin: Texas, Southeastern United States Show more