New York Ironweed

An attractive perennial plant is in bloom in our area now— the New York Ironweed (Vernonia noveboracensis). This tall growing, herbaceous perennial is found in stream bottoms and lowlands in much the same areas as cardinal flower and Joe-Pye Weed. The ironweed has an attractive purplish flower that stays in bloom from early August to October. Ironweed gets its name from the strong stems that make the plant stand erect throughout the winter. New York Ironweed is a native species found throughout most of the eastern part of the country.

New York Ironweed has very rich nectar which is a favorite of hummingbirds and bees. Extracts from the ironweed plant have been used to cure a number of stomach ailments.

See more nature notes and images about New York Ironweed on the boards website.

Article by FCFCDB member

Nature note for 7/25/2020