Ironweed
vernonia fasciculata
Also known as: ["Common Ironweed","Fleabane"]
Overview
A tall, herbaceous perennial native to North America, known for its vibrant purple flowers and ability to thrive in moist, sunny environments.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Vernonia |
| Botanical Name: | Vernonia fasciculata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed in open field or meadow
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; tolerates average garden soil.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure adequate spacing for air circulation.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure soil is loose and airy; test pH if issues arise.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F); tolerates heat but may struggle below 50°F.
Monitor nighttime lows; use frost cloth in cold snaps; water roots, not foliage, in heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Apply fertilizer after watering; stop feeding in fall; use organic options for slow release.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; seeds can also be sown in spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), humid environment with indirect light; protect from drafts.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; peat moss can retain moisture.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; establishment takes 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle, plastic wrap.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; thin out crowded areas.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or aged manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, or stunted growth in excessive heat; yellowing or root rot in cold conditions.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, weakens roots, and increases susceptibility to disease in temperatures below 50°F.
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; move potted plants indoors; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Causes wilting, leaf drop, and reduced flowering during prolonged heat waves.
Solution: Water deeply in early morning; provide partial shade; increase humidity around the plant.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to soil; rinse tools afterward.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicVernonia fasciculata is not known to pose a toxic risk to cats. It is generally considered safe for cats to come into contact with or ingest small amounts of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicVernonia fasciculata is not known to pose a toxic risk to dogs. It is generally considered safe for dogs to come into contact with or ingest small amounts of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicVernonia fasciculata is not known to have significant toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and incidental ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Ironweed grow?
A: Vernonia fasciculata typically grows to heights of 3–6 feet.
Q: Does Ironweed attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its vibrant purple flowers are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Is Ironweed suitable for wet soil?
A: Yes, it thrives in moist to wet soils and full sun conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
