Eupatorium Eutrochium 'Purpureum' is a tall statuesque perennial known for its rich purple stems and large domed clusters of soft mauve pink flowers that bloom from midsummer into fall. The vanilla scented blooms and bold form add drama to borders, meadows, and naturalized plantings, while its deep root system makes it excellent for supporting slope stability and perennial diversity in moist sites.
Height & Spread: 60 - 84 in x 24 - 48 in
Bloom Time: Midsummer to early fall
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Moist, rich, well drained soils
Watering Needs: Moderate to high; tolerates periodic wetness
Deer Resistance: Deer resistant
Native Status
This plant is native to eastern North America and is commonly found in moist woodlands, wet meadows, and lowland thickets.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Provides abundant nectar for Monarchs, Eastern Tiger Swallowtails, Red Admirals, and Painted Ladies during their late season migrations.
Moths
- Supports nectar feeding moths such as the Hummingbird Clearwing and various underwing species during evening and night hours.
Bees
- Highly attractive to bumblebees, leafcutter bees, sweat bees, and honeybees seeking high nectar sources late in the season.
Beneficial Insects
- Attracts predatory wasps and hoverflies that help manage garden pests while feeding on nectar.
Birds
- Finches and other small songbirds feed on the seeds after flowering, while tall stalks provide perching opportunities for insect hunting birds.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 24 - 36 in apart to accommodate mature spread and allow airflow between tall stems.
Landscape Placement
- Best used in the back of borders, rain gardens, pollinator meadows, and naturalized woodland edges where its height and late bloom time provide vertical interest and seasonal continuity.
Companion Plants
- Aster novae-angliae (New England Aster) - Provides rich purple to pink fall blooms that echo Joe Pye Weed's color palette and support late season pollinators.
- Asclepias incarnata (Swamp Milkweed) - Shares the same habitat and attracts Monarchs while blooming in complementary shades.
- Chelone glabra (White Turtlehead) - Contrasts with bright white flowers and provides food for Baltimore Checkerspot caterpillars.
- Monarda fistulosa (Wild Bergamot) - Offers aromatic foliage and long blooming lavender flowers that attract bees and hummingbirds.
- Rudbeckia fulgida (Black Eyed Susan) - Brings bold yellow blooms and sturdy upright stems that pair well in sunny meadows or borders.
- Vernonia noveboracensis (Ironweed) - Adds deep purple flowers and upright texture for a dramatic late summer pairing.