Also known as Joe Pye Weed · 2.2k saves
Eupatorium
Eupatorium, the genus most gardeners know as joe pye weed. We track 28 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 24 most-saved Eupatorium varieties
See all 28 Eupatorium varieties →Search this genus →
4 species of Eupatorium
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Eupatorium in Sow
Save the Eupatorium you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Eupatorium
Whats common across all Eupatorium varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 28 most-grown of them.
The Eupatorium year
- DivideMarch and September89% of varieties
Divide large clumps every 3-5 years to maintain vigor
- PruneFebruary71% of varieties
Cut old stems down to the ground in late winter/early spring
- Spring CleanupFebruary46% of varieties
Cut back old, dried stems to the ground before new growth appears
Do
- Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
- Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape
- Prune back after flowering to promote bushiness
- Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
Avoid
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
- Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
- Don’t prune in late fall, wait until early spring
What goes wrong with Eupatorium
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Sticky residue and distorted leaves | Use insecticidal soap or neem oil |
| Powdery mildew | White powder on leaves | Apply fungicide or improve air circulation |
| Spider mites | Fine webbing on foliage | Use insecticidal soap |
| Powdery Mildew | White powdery coating on leaves | Improve air circulation and apply sulfur-based fungicide |
| Powdery mildew | White powder on leaves | Improve air circulation and apply fungicide |
| Root rot | Wilting and yellowing leaves | Improve drainage and reduce watering |
| Root Rot | Wilting and yellowing despite watering | Ensure well-drained soil and reduce watering |
Making more Eupatorium
Division
- Dig up mature plants in early spring
- Separate clumps with a sharp knife or spade
- Replant divisions immediately in prepared soil
- Water thoroughly after planting
Cuttings
- Take 4-6 inch softwood cuttings in late spring.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist potting mix.
- Maintain humidity and keep in indirect light.
- Roots form in about 6 weeks.
Eupatorium questions
How many types of Eupatorium are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 28 distinct Eupatorium varieties. The most popular — ranked by 2.2k real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Eupatorium grow in?
Across its varieties, Eupatorium covers USDA Zones 4–10. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Eupatorium bloom?
Most Eupatorium varieties bloom in late summer, late summer to fall, late summer to early fall. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Eupatorium should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.