Missouri ironweed - Vernonia missurica
Vernonia missurica, the Missouri ironweed
Prefers full or partial sunlight and moist to average conditions.
Somewhat drought resistant.
Under severe conditions, the plant will wilt and blooms abort.
The soil texture can consist of fertile loam, clay-loam, or have a slightly gritty texture from exposed glacial till and gravel.
Disease is not troublesome, except for occasional episodes of mildew during the fall.
It is a common plant and easy to grow.
Typical habitats include moist to mesic black soil prairies, openings and edges of woodlands, swamps, seeps, limestone glades, edges of lakes, overgrazed pastures, vacant lots, and areas along railroads.
It is common in disturbed areas but also occurs in high quality habitats.
Provides food for birds, a nesting environment for woodcocks and its prolific purple blooms attract a variety of pollinators.
Light Requirements: Full Sun, Half Sun / Half Shade
Bloom Time: Mid-summer to fall
Soil Moisture: Average, Dry, Moist / Wet
Soil Type: Loamy Soil, Sandy Soil, Clay Soil, Well-Drained Soil
Mature Height: 108" tall (9 feet)
Zones: 3-8