Boneset
Eupatorium perfoliatum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
24"–60" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 33 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Boneset is a tall native wildflower with distinctive white, fuzzy flower clusters that bloom from summer into fall. This sturdy perennial produces clusters of small white flowers atop sturdy stems and prefers consistently moist soil conditions.
In an HOA neighborhood
Boneset takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Very tall and can appear wild or weedy
- Dies back completely in winter leaving bare stems
- Common name 'weed' suffix raises HOA concerns
Wildlife value
Excellent pollinator plant that attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles with its abundant nectar-rich blooms. The late-season flowers provide crucial food sources when many other plants have finished blooming.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Boneset fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.