Eupatorium maculatum 'Phantom' is a compact cultivar of a native perennial known for its dense clouds of rich purple pink blooms held above dark stems. With a tidy form and high ecological value, this selection is ideal for native gardeners working with smaller spaces.
Height & Spread: 3 - 4 ft x 2 - 3 ft
Bloom Time: Mid to late summer
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Moist well drained loamy or clay soil
Watering Needs: Medium to high
Deer Resistance: Moderate
NATIVE STATUS
Native to North America and is commonly found in moist meadows stream banks and lowlands across the eastern and central United States.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
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Highly attractive to bumble bees sweat bees and other native bees that gather nectar and pollen from its flat clustered flower heads.
Butterflies
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Provides valuable nectar to a wide variety of butterflies including monarchs painted ladies and swallowtails during the later part of the growing season.
Beneficial Insects
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Draws in hover flies and other pollinating flies that add to pollination services and increase diversity in native landscapes.
SPACING & LANDSCAPE USE
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 24 - 30 in apart to allow for mature spread and airflow.
Landscape Placement
- Ideal for rain gardens perennial borders moist meadows and wildlife gardens. Its smaller size makes it perfect for city plots and mixed plantings where pollinator activity is desired.
COMPANION PLANTS
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Chelone lyonii (Pink Turtlehead) - a moisture loving perennial with soft pink flowers that attract bees and bloom around the same time.
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Carex vulpinoidea (Fox Sedge) - a native sedge that thrives in wet soil and adds grassy texture at the base of upright plants.
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Lobelia cardinalis (Cardinal Flower) - a bold red bloomer that supports hummingbirds and complements the purple tones of 'Phantom'.
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Veronicastrum virginicum (Culver's Root) - a tall upright flower that adds vertical interest and blooms in early to midsummer.
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Aquilegia canadensis (Wild Columbine) - an early blooming plant that attracts pollinators before Eupatorium comes into flower.
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Actaea racemosa (Black Cohosh) - a tall shade tolerant perennial that adds drama and provides floral interest in woodland edges and moist soils.