Description

So unusual – an ironweed with finely textured, thin, narrow leaves (similar to Amsonia hubrichtii) but the classic ironweed flowers. Compact and well-branched. Fluffy, bright purple, small flower heads occur in large, loosely branched, flat-topped, terminal clusters. Flowers give way to rusty seed clusters.

‘Iron Butterfly’ was selected for its compact, densely mounding habit and showy, long-lasting display of purple blooms. It hybridizes with other Vernonia in the area and can lead to mixed seedlings with varying foliage textures and plant heights – doesn’t that sound interesting!

Prefers well-draining soils. Tolerant of various soil conditions, including hot, dry and rocky. Also tolerant of occasional flooding and drought once established.

Height: 2-3 ft.
Spread: 2-3 ft.
Family: Asteraceae
Bloom time: July to August
Sun: full sun
Water: dry to medium

photo credit: Eric Hunt