Vernonia 'Summer Swan Song'

Vernonia 'Summer Swan Song'

$14.95

Vernonia 'Summer Swan Song' is a refined selection of ironweed with upright stems topped by clusters of rich violet purple flowers from late summer into fall. Its strong vertical habit and extended bloom period bring structure and late season color to sunny landscapes while providing valuable support for pollinators when many other perennials have finished flowering.

Height & Spread: 36 - 48 in x 24 - 36 in

Bloom Time: Late summer to fall

Light Requirements: Full sun

Soil Preference: Average to moist well drained soil

Watering Needs: Moderate; tolerates occasional dry conditions once established

Deer Resistance: Deer resistant

Native Status

This selection is a cultivated form of Vernonia, a genus native to North America. 'Summer Swan Song' was selected for its improved garden habit and long lasting ornamental performance while maintaining the ecological benefits of native ironweed.

WILDLIFE & INSECTS

Butterflies

  • Attracts Monarchs, Swallowtails, Painted Ladies, and other late season butterflies which rely on its nectar rich blooms during fall migration.

Bees

  • Supports native bees, bumblebees, and honeybees which visit the dense flower clusters for nectar and pollen.

Birds

  • Provides seeds that can attract songbirds later in the season while adding valuable vertical habitat to the garden.

Spacing & Landscape Use

Spacing Recommendations

  • Space 24 - 36 in apart to allow its upright stems and branching flower clusters enough room to develop fully.

Landscape Placement

  • Ideal for native plantings, pollinator gardens, rain gardens, and sunny borders where its tall form adds late season structure and color.

Companion Plants

  • Panicum virgatum 'Northwind' (Switchgrass) - Adds upright grass structure and complements the tall architectural form.
  • Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower) - Provides overlapping summer bloom time and strong pollinator value.
  • Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm' (Black Eyed Susan) - Creates a vibrant late summer combination with contrasting golden flowers.
  • Solidago rugosa 'Fireworks' (Goldenrod) - Extends the fall display while supporting a wide range of pollinators.
  • Schizachyrium scoparium (Little Bluestem) - Brings native grass texture and seasonal color that pairs well with tall flowering perennials.

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