Spotted Joe-Pye Weed
Herbaceous perennial growing 1-2 m tall. Features whorled, lance-shaped leaves and large, flat-topped clusters of mauve-pink flowers blooming in late summer to fall. Prefers consistently moist to wet soils and full sun to partial shade. Attracts butterflies and other pollinators. Provides late-season food for wildlife. Suitable for rain gardens, pond edges, and moist meadows. Native to eastern and central North America.
Plant Details
Bloom Colour: Pink to Purple
Bloom Time: Mid to Late-Summer
Sun Requirements: Sun to Part-Shade
Moisture: Moist to Wet
Phenology: Stems emerge May. Leaves fully developed by June. Pink-purple flower clusters appear August-September. Seeds mature October. Dead stems persist through winter.
Wildlife Value: Premier butterfly nectar plant; seeds eaten by songbirds; stem cavities provide bee nesting sites; deer resistant
Habit Over Time: Creates bold clumps of strong, purple-spotted stems that emerge from a slowly expanding crown. While the plant is tall and architectural, the stems maintain enough space between them to allow glimpses of plants behind. Clumps gradually increase in size but maintain clear boundaries. The sturdy stems provide strong winter interest and support for wildlife.
Height: Tall (4-6 feet)