Ironweed - Vernonia fasciculata

Also called Smooth or Common Ironweed.

Features:  This prairie plant has dense clusters of small, amazingly intense purple flowers. Attracts many native bees, butterflies and skippers. Getting its name from its tough stem, Ironweed is a larval host for the American Painted Lady butterfly.

Light: Full to partial sun

Soil: Moist to Medium

Height: 2-4 feet

Blooms: August to September

See more information and photos at Illinois Wildflowers and USDA Plants Database

Photo Credit: Stephanie Walquist, Wild Ones Member; Illinois Wildflowers; Midwest Groundcovers