Eutrochium maculatum. Asteraceae. Spotted Joe Pye-Weed is a beautiful perennial that is sure to catch your eye. This tall, sturdy plant stands between 3-7 ft and has profuse pink/purple flowers that bloom from midsummer to fall. Not to mention, attractive whorled leaves.
This plant has a clumping habit & likes to spread. Adaptable to many soil types, including heavy clay. Prefers moist to wet soil but tolerates average soil. A great option for rain gardens, wetlands, meadows, bogs, and stream banks. This plant is often an indicator species for a healthy wetland ecosystem.
Flowers attract pollinators including numerous bee species including the threatened Rusty-Patched Bumblebee, as well as Monarch, Azure, Swallowtail, Skipper, and White Admiral butterflies. Larval host for Ruby Tiger Moth & Three-Lined Flower Moth. Birds such as the American Goldfinch use the seeds as a food source. Not a preferred source of food for deer & rabbits.
Medicinal uses included making tea from the roots to treat kidney stones, urinary issues, fevers, asthma, headaches, and rheumatism. Tea made from the leaves acts as a diuretic.
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