Vernonia glauca, also known as broadleaf ironweed, is a clump forming native perennial with upright stems and clusters of vivid purple flowers that bloom in late summer. It thrives in open meadows and woodland edges providing vital nectar to pollinators when few other plants are in bloom. Height & Spread: 24 - 36 in x 18 - 24 in Bloom Time: Late summer to early fall Light Requirements: Full sun to part sun Soil Preference: Moist, well drained soil; tolerant of clay and rocky soils Watering Needs: Low to moderate; drought tolerant once established Deer Resistance: Generally deer resistant Native Status Native to the eastern and southeastern United States, often found in prairies, glades, and dry to mesic woodlands. WILDLIFE & INSECTS Butterflies Attracts Monarchs, Painted Ladies, and Red Admirals during fall migration with rich nectar sources. Bees Provides nectar for native bumblebees, sweat bees, and long tongued bees in late summer. Spacing & Landscape Use Spacing Recommendations Space 18 - 24 in apart to create a bold vertical element in mixed native plantings. Landscape Placement Excellent for pollinator gardens, wildflower meadows, native prairie restorations, and open woodland edges. Companion Plants Solidago nemoralis (Gray Goldenrod) - Offers a contrasting color and bloom shape with similar late season timing. Symphyotrichum laeve (Smooth Blue Aster) - Adds texture and pale blue flowers that complement Vernonia’s purple clusters. Liatris spicata (Blazing Star) - Enhances the vertical form and provides earlier bloom support for pollinators. Rudbeckia triloba (Brown Eyed Susan) - Adds vibrant yellow contrast and spreads well in naturalistic plantings. Eutrochium dubium (Joe Pye Weed) - Combines with Vernonia for layered height and sustained nectar production.
