Culture: Easily grown in average, medium to wet soils in full sun. Tolerates some light afternoon shade, particularly in hot summer climates. Prefers moist, fertile, humusy soils which do not dry out. Cut plants to the ground in late winter.
Noteworthy Characteristics: Eutrochium maculatum, commonly known as Joe Pye weed, is native to damp meadows, thickets and coastal areas in eastern North America. Plants typically grow 4–7’ tall on branched, purple-speckled stems clad with serrate, lance-shaped, medium green leaves (to 8” long) that typically appear in whorls of 3–6. Tiny, light to deep purple flowers in compound inflorescences bloom from mid-summer to early fall. Genus name is derived from the Greek words eu meaning well and troche meaning wheel-like in reference to the whorled leaves. Specific epithet means spotted in reference to the spotted stems.
Problems: No serious insect or disease problems. Leaves may scorch if soils are allowed to dry out.
Garden Uses: Tall plant for moist soils in borders, cottage gardens, meadows, native plant gardens, wild/naturalized areas or water margins.
Joe Pye Weed is a very tall plant, up to 6′ in the best sun/soil conditions, but strong stems support the flowering plant so it rarely needs to be staked. These attractive stems are almost the same color as the dusty rose-colored flowers, which will bloom for many weeks in July and August, becoming absolute magnets for dozens of species of butterflies. Also called Spotted Joe Pye Weed, it is best planted in full to almost-full sun and rich, moist soils. It will spread so should be planted with caution in small landscape situations.
If you love Joe Pye but have too much shade, try Sweet Joe Pye Weed (Eutrochium purpureum). It is very similar to Joe Pye in height, flower shape and color, but likes savanna and woodland conditions.
