New York Ironweed
By Lise Fracalossi
Vernonia noveboracensis
Native to: NH, MA, CT, RI
Life cycle: Perennial
Light: Full/Partial Sun
Soil Moisture: Medium-Wet to Medium
Height: 4-8’
Spread: 3-4’
Spacing: 3-4’
Blooms: July-October
Bloom Color: Purple
Natural Habitat: Meadows, wetlands, and roadside edges
Benefits: Pollinator Favorite, Bird Favorite, Host Plant (eg. American Lady, Crossline Skipper), Deer/Rabbit Resistant, Low Maintenance
Pairs Well With: Boneset, swamp milkweed, New England aster, tall white aster, and coastal Joe-Pye weed
“A spectacular species for some vibrant, late-season interest. It will easily hit 6.5-feet tall when given adequate sun and moisture. Vernonia is just beginning to bloom as the majority of summer-bloomers are ending. Attracts butterflies.”
–Native Plant Trust
“Dramatic, large summer-blooming plant excellent for borders, rain gardens, and meadows. Deep purple flowers attract pollinating insects and butterflies. Deer-resistant foliage.”
–Wild Seed Project

New York Ironweed (Vernonia noveboracensis)
Photo (and featured image) by Lise Fracalossi. Taken at Garden in the Woods, Framingham, MA, September 2023