Joe-Pye Weed (Eutrochium maculatum)

Joe-Pye Weed is a very tall plant, up to 6' in the best sun/soil conditions, but strong stems support the flowering plant so it rarely needs to be staked. These attractive stems are almost the same color as the dusty rose-colored flowers, which will bloom for many weeks in July and August, becoming absolute magnets for dozens of species of butterflies. Also called Spotted Joe-Pye Weed, it is best planted in full to almost-full sun and rich, moist soils. It will spread so should be planted with caution in small landscape situations. 

If you love Joe-Pye but have too much shade, try Purple Joe-Pye Weed (Eutrochium purpureum). It is very similar to Joe-Pye in height, flower shape and color, but likes savanna and woodland conditions.

The Joe-Pye Weeds have been assigned to the genus Eupatoriadelphus to separate them from the Bonesets (Eupatorium). Native habitat includes alluvial woods, meadows, bogs & marshes, and stream banks.