PerennialsEupatorium purpureum
Joe Pye Weed
Joe Pye weed is an impressive perennial that can reach up to two metres in height. The large, dome-shaped flower clusters in pink to purple appear from July to September and are a paradise for butterflies. A powerful structural plant for the back of large borders.
Characteristics
- Sun
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Water
- Medium
- Height
- 120–200 cm
- Spread
- 80–120 cm
- Hardiness zone
- 4–8
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Evergreen
- No
- Flower colors
- pink, purple
- Wildlife value
- bees, butterflies, birds
Bloom period
Care guide
Plant in full sun to partial shade in moist, nutrient-rich soil. The plant tolerates short dry spells but blooms best with adequate moisture. Feed with compost in spring. Support stems with plant stakes in windy locations.
Pruning tips
Cut all stems back to the ground after the first frost, or leave seed heads standing as winter food for birds. Divide large clumps every four to five years.
Good companions
PerennialsEchinacea purpurea
Purple Coneflower
Purple Coneflower is a sturdy perennial with distinctive pink-purple petals surrounding an orange-brown cone. The flowers appear from July to September and are a magnet for butterflies and bees. In autumn and winter, the seed heads attract goldfinches and other seed-eating birds.
Ornamental grassesMiscanthus sinensis
Chinese Silver Grass
Chinese Silver Grass is a striking ornamental grass that adds structure to any garden with its tall plumes and gracefully arching leaves. Silvery-white plumes appear from August to October and catch the autumn and winter light beautifully. The dried grass remains attractive throughout winter.
PerennialsRudbeckia fulgida
Black-eyed Susan
Black-eyed Susan blooms from July through October with radiant golden-yellow petals surrounding a dark brown center. The plant is virtually indestructible, spreads gradually, and suits large borders and prairie-style gardens. After flowering, the seed heads provide food for birds.