'Jonesboro Giant' Tall Ironweed
Vernonia altissima 'Jonesboro Giant'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
120 inches
Width
48 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate to wet
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Eastern and Central North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Vernonia altissima 'Jonesboro Giant' is a tall, robust native perennial known for its sturdy stems, lance-shaped leaves, and large, terminal clusters of fuzzy, deep purple flowers that attract pollinators in late summer and fall. This cultivar stands out for its impressive height and vigorous growth, making it ideal for bold garden statements and erosion control on slopes.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into prepared soil in early spring
- Water regularly until established, about 6 weeks
- Place in full sun for best flowering
- Fertilize with balanced fertilizer in spring
- Divide every 2-3 years in early spring or fall
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture
Pro Tip
Ensure well-drained soil and full sun for optimal growth
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
- Prune back after flowering to promote bushiness
- Fertilize annually in spring
Don't
- Overwater to prevent root rot ❌
- Avoid heavy clay soils without amendment
- Do not prune in late fall
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Pinch | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
'Jonesboro Giant' Tall Ironweed questions
What zones can 'Jonesboro Giant' Tall Ironweed grow in?
'Jonesboro Giant' Tall Ironweed is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is 'Jonesboro Giant' Tall Ironweed deer resistant?
Yes — 'Jonesboro Giant' Tall Ironweed is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does 'Jonesboro Giant' Tall Ironweed bloom?
'Jonesboro Giant' Tall Ironweed typically blooms in late summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does 'Jonesboro Giant' Tall Ironweed need full sun?
'Jonesboro Giant' Tall Ironweed does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is 'Jonesboro Giant' Tall Ironweed drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), 'Jonesboro Giant' Tall Ironweed handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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