Sweet Joe Pye Weed

Description:  Sweet Joe Pye weed is a species of herbaceous perennial plant. It is named after Joe Pye, a Native American from New England who used the plant in the early 1800s for medicinal needs. As the plant begins to bloom the stems often bend downward under the weight of the flowers. The leaves grow up to 12 in long and have a wrinkled texture. For more information see: plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/eutrochium-purpureum

Care and Growing Tips:  Joe Pye weed can grow in a variety of conditions, from full sun to partial shade. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including acidic, neutral, and alkaline. Sweet Joe Pye weed is a favorite of butterflies and other pollinators due to its sweet vanilla scent. It’s also a popular choice for native gardens because it adds height and texture to the landscape. It’s generally low maintenance and does not require special winter protection. The stalks can be cut back to just above ground level when frost kills the plants or after the flowers have faded.