New York Ironweed

Light Needs

Partial Sun to Full Sun

(At Least 5 Hours of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

3-4 Feet

Mature Spread

1-2 Feet

Growing Zones

4 to 8

New York Ironweed is a native wildflower commonly found along stream banks or marshes. It is a hardy plant that puts on a showy floral display near the end of summer. Aster-like flowers feature tubular blooms with frilly ends that grow in clusters, creating an orb of tiny blooms. The deep purple flowers of the Vernonia noveboracensis stand out against the dark green foliage. 

This lovely upright perennial is favored by pollinators but is largely deer resistant. At 3 to 4 feet tall, this plant can add height to the back of a mixed bed or conceal a foundation wall. Create a colorful and textured border or plant in an area prone to flooding since this perennial can thrive in damp conditions. Ironweed is hardy and rather sturdy since the tall stems do not require staking. New York Ironweed is native to the eastern U.S. and grows as a herbaceous perennial in USDA zones 4 through 8. 

New York Ironweed Care

Plant Ironweed in full to partial sun, but expect better results with more exposure to light. This adaptable perennial can handle various soil types, but moist, slightly acidic soil with good drainage is best. Ironweed prefers one inch of water per week, but it doesn’t mind wet feet, making this a good option for naturally damp areas. Apply a balanced fertilizer every spring to support new growth.

Pruning is unnecessary, but remove spent blooms to promote more prolific flowering. Cut the plant back to a few inches in the fall, and new growth will emerge in the spring. Divide the plant every few years.

New York Ironweed Spacing

New York Ironweed is an upright, clump-forming perennial that will grow 3 to 4 feet tall and 1 to 2 feet wide. Plants can be spaced 1 to 2 feet to create a full effect.