Eupatorium Eutrochium 'Dubium' is a compact cultivar of Joe Pye Weed that brings bold late summer presence to smaller gardens. Its domed heads of dusty rose pink flowers sit atop sturdy wine tinged stems and are framed by whorled green leaves. 'Dubium' is especially useful in extending seasonal interest into early fall while offering a vertical accent that never overwhelms.
Height & Spread: 24 - 36 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Mid to late summer
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Moist, well drained to consistently damp soils
Watering Needs: Moderate; prefers regular moisture during hot periods
Deer Resistance: Generally unbothered by deer due to strong stems and coarse foliage
Native Status
'Dubium' is a cultivated selection of Eutrochium dubium, a species native to the eastern United States. While selected for garden use, it retains the wildlife support and adaptability of its native parent.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Attracts Monarchs, Eastern Tiger Swallowtails, and Painted Ladies with its generous nectar supply.
Moths
- Visited by nocturnal pollinators such as the Hummingbird Clearwing Moth and various Sphinx moth species.
Bees
- Supports a wide range of native bees including bumblebees, sweat bees, and leafcutter bees during its extended bloom period.
Birds
- Seed heads attract goldfinches and other small songbirds in fall while dried stalks provide structure for overwintering insects used by birds in spring.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 18 - 24 in apart to allow airflow and upright form in tighter plantings or native garden borders.
Landscape Placement:
- Suited for pollinator gardens, rain gardens, and naturalistic plantings where compact vertical interest and late bloom are desired.
Companion Plants
- Iris versicolor (Blue Flag Iris) - Offers early summer blooms and upright foliage that contrast nicely with Joe Pye’s late flowers.
- Monarda fistulosa (Wild Bergamot) - Shares pollinator appeal and similar soil moisture preferences with a looser form and lavender tones.
- Symphyotrichum novae-angliae (New England Aster) - Provides vivid fall blooms and a strong vertical echo to match Joe Pye’s late season timing.
- Asclepias incarnata (Swamp Milkweed) - Blooms slightly earlier but shares moist soil preference and strong pollinator support especially for Monarchs.
- Rudbeckia fulgida (Black Eyed Susan) - Offers cheerful golden blooms that form a warm contrast beneath 'Dubium’s rose colored domes.