Vernonia arkansana

ironweed (syn crinita )

• Position: full sun
• Soil: moist, fertile soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: July to September
• Flower colour: purple-crimson
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  Clusters of small purple-crimson flowers are produced in summer followed by fluffy white seeds that mature to rust-orange, giving this perennial its common name of ironweed. Native to the prairies of North America, it can withstand very cold weather in winter but does need plenty of summer sunshine and moisture to thrive in. It looks particularly stunning planted amongst tall grass where the flowers shimmer amongst the silky grass plumes.
  
  
• Garden care: Protect young plants from slug damage. Cuttings can be taken from new growth in early summer but they tend to be slow to root. Larger clumps can be divided in late spring.