Vernonia 'Southern Cross'
Ironweed
Thin, but broader than other varieties, foliage has great texture with late summer purple blooms to add a burst of color. Vase habit and much shorter than the straight species. Very easy to grow. Once established, this plant is extremely drought and heat resistant. Attracts butterflies and many other beneficials.
Height
4-5 ft
Spread
4-5 ft
Color
Purple
Interesting Notes
Discovered by Brent Horvath of Intrinsic Perennial Gardens
Bloom Time
August-September
When to Divide
spring or fall
Good Companions
Three-lobed Coneflower (Rudbeckia triloba), Fall Aster (Aster ), Calamint (Calamintha nepeta var. nepeta), Porcupine Grass (Miscanthus sinensis), Helen's Flower (Helenium ), Bee Balm (Monarda didyma), Three-lobed Coneflower (Rudbeckia triloba), Adam's Needle (Yucca filamentosa), Bluemist Shrub (Caryopteris clandonensis)Characteristics & Attributes
Attracts Wildlife
| • | Butterflies |
| • | Hummingbirds |
Attributes & Uses
| • | Cut Flowers |
Critter Resistance
| • | Rabbit Resistant |
| • | Deer Resistant |
Exposure
| • | Full Sun |
Foliage Color
| • | Green |
Season of Interest (Flowering)
| • | Summer |
| • | Fall |
Season of Interest (Foliage)
| • | Winter |
| • | Spring |
| • | Summer |
| • | Fall |
Soil Moisture Preference
| • | Moist but well-drained |
| • | Very Adaptable |
