Diggin’ the Natives – Vernonia lettermannii ‘Iron Butterfly’ (Dwarf Ironweed)

Vernonia lettermannii 'Iron Butterfly' - Photo courtesy of North Creek Nurseries

The name is rockin’ but the fun doesn’t stop there!  Vernonia ‘Iron Butterfly’ is one of the hottest plants on the market right now.  Excellent, clean foliage, dwarf habit, AND purple flowers when nothing else seems to be blooming (in the fall).

Many have been “scared” away from New York Ironweed (Vernonia noveboracensis) due to it’s towering presence – but really, why should a 7‘ perennial scare you?  So for the faint of heart we now how Iron Butterfly – fine textured foliage similar to Amsonia hubrechtii, and low maintenance.  Yes, I said low maintenance and I don’t say that often about perennials because they do require maintenance.  All this little lovely needs is a haircut in the spring to remove dead foliage from the previous year.

Vernonia lettermanii 'Iron Butterfly' foliage - Photo courtesy of North Creek Nurseries

Full sun is best in average to dry soils, however this little rocker can also tolerate periods of inundation (just not heavy or saturated soils).  A butterfly attractor, this lovely native deserves a place in ANY sun garden.  30-36” tall, zones 4-9.