Eupatorium perfoliatum - Boneset Thoroughwort

Sizes available: #1 (Trade gallon)

Basics: zones 3-8, 48-72" x 36-48", sun to part shade, long lasting flat-topped clusters of numerous small white blooms in mid to late summer, prefers medium to wet soils, sand or clay ok, soils on the lean side lead to stronger plants, prefers not to dry out.

Common names: Boneset Thoroughwort, American Boneset, Common Boneset

Family: Asteraceae

Origin/Distribution: Native to eastern Canada south to Florida and west to the eastern Dakotas, western Nebraska, eastern Kansas and northern Texas. E. perfoliatum is native to Maine. These plants were grown from seed collected in New England.

Habitat: low, open woods, thickets, streamside, meadow, damp prairie

More: This is a large-statured, late-blooming perennial beloved by pollinators. It can hold its own with other strong growers like Joe Pye Weed, (Eutrochium spp.) and Monarda fistulosa and does well in a damp meadow or alongside water where its moisture needs are easily met. It also makes a good cut flower in meadow inspired arrangements either fresh or dried. The leaves have been used medicinally, but also contains potentially toxic compounds, so proceed with caution.

Source: Van Berkum, grown from seed collected in New England

Image credit: Frank Meuschke from Shelterwood Gardens; Wikimedia Commons