Joe Pye Weed or Eupatorium is a staple plant of a large number of native pollinators and caterpillars. The importance of this plant in our North American native landscape should not be undersold, if you want to attract parasitic wasps to kill pests, bees to pollinate flowers, or caterpillars to grow into butterflies then Joe Pye should be in your garden.

Beyond native appeal, Eupatorium is a beautiful plant, tall strong stems rise among other plants and yield pink/purple flowers similar in color to a redbud tree. These flowers appear late in the season, providing beauty when most other flowers no longer produce. This late season flourish also provides an important banquet for pollinators as they prepare for winter.

We think this particular Eupatorium is special because of its size. Most grow to 6’ tall while this variety grows to only 2-3’ tall and 1-2’ wide. It is the perfect compact size for pairing with other plants and grasses in the garden.

 Photo Credit: Ball Horticultural Co

General care for any tree or shrub is easy, but like any living thing will require your attention. Please educate yourself and follow these simple rules.