Vernonia Noveboracensis. This perennial native to North America is named ironweed for its unbendingly strong stems that endure through winter. Ironweed plants can range from 2’ to 7’ in height, so cultivate behind shorter plants. The flowers are a deep purple-red shade and produce a small fruit that looks like a seed. Ironweeds are often found naturally in thickets, stream edges, pastures, hayfields, and meadows. This plant prefers medium to moist areas and partial to full sun but can thrive in a wide range of soil and condition.

Zone 5-9.

Heirloom seeds are collected from the gardens and grounds at George Washington’s Mount Vernon and cleaned and packaged by hand.