Joe Pye Weed, Eutrochium purpureum
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“Weed” or “welcome” remains firmly in the eye of the beholder.
This beautiful plant is known as “Joe Pye Weed,” but I consider it a lovely perennial flower. A native wildflower throughout Eastern North America, this Eutrochium purpureum, was used by our Native Americans for healing.
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If you follow the link back to last summer’s post, you will see how our plant looked this time last year, soon after we planted it. It has grown considerably larger this year. It is a tall, architectural statement plant in our sunny garden this summer.
Not a single seedling appeared, so I wouldn’t consider this plant invasive in the least. It hasn’t been so much as nibbled by a deer or rabbit, and is a hub of activity on sunny days.
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I love the red stems and sturdy foliage. You’ll see that the leaves have not been nibbled by the insects who come to enjoy the flowers’ nectar.
Have you grown Joe Pye Weed? It has proven to be a drought tolerant beauty in full sun. The flowers last for more than a month. It isn’t an easy plant to find in our area, but were I to find it again, I would definitely purchase another plant or two.
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