Description

Clumping perennial that adds architectural interest to the garden. Sturdy, unbranched stems are green with purple at the nodes. Leaves are whorled around stems. Large, domed clusters of vanilla-scented, deep pink flowers act as pollinator magnets. Prefers soils which do not dry out. Attracts birds, butterflies, beneficial insects. Special value to native bees. E. purpureum differs from the other Joe Pyes due to its fragrant dome shaped flower clusters and solid stems that are mostly green except for purple blotches at the nodes. E. maculatum has flat topped flower clusters and stems that are either purple spotted or solid purple. E. fistulosum has dome shaped flower clusters that are not noticeably fragrant and stems that are hollow and usually just green. Height: 5-7 ft. Spread: 2-4 ft. Family: Asteraceae Bloom time: July to September Sun: full sun to part shade Water: medium Deer and rabbit resistant photo credit: Charles de Mille-Isles