Vernonia missurica.
Missouri Ironweed is a perennial wildflower native the central and southeastern regions of the United States where it can often be found growing in moist prairies, woodland openings, and along the edges of lakes.
Plant grows to around 5 feet in height and produces stunning magenta-colored flowers that bloom from July through October.
Attracts many species of pollinators as a late season nectar source, and is the host plant for a number of month species including Parthenice Tiger Moth and the Red Groundling.
Typically blooms in the second year.
Missouri Ironwood
Growth Chart
Hardiness Zones: 4 to 9 Light Requirement: Full sun Soil Type: Loamy, clay Sow Depth: Surface Plant Spacing: 24 to 36 inches Germination Note: Cold stratification required Stratification Time: 60 days Bloom Time: July through October Growing Tips
Direct sow in late fall by lightly pressing the seeds into the soil's surface. For spring planting, mix seeds with moist sand and store in the refrigerator for 60 days (cold stratification) before sowing.
A Note on Cold Stratification
These seeds require cold, moist stratification. To naturally stratify the seeds, plant outdoors late fall on a weed-free site and allow seeds to overwinter.
To artificially stratify the seeds, place the seeds and a moist medium (such as a damp paper towel, coffee filter, sand, or vermiculite) in a labeled, sealed plastic bag and store in a refrigerator (33-40°F) for the amount of time noted on the growth chart before sowing.