Giant Ironweed - Vernonia gigantea

You wouldn't know from the purple blooms, but Giant Ironweed is a member of the sunflower family. This USA native wildflower commonly beautifies roadsides, grasslands, and woodlands while inviting butterflies and bees with its attractive nectar. Giant Ironweed is a perennial that goes dormant in the winter. It flowers from late summer to early fall.• Average mature height: 3 to 10 feet• Light: full sun to part shade• Soil: Well-drained• Water: Medium to wet• Zones: 5 to 8