Frostweed
Verbesina virginica
Last reviewed: June 2026
Verbesina virginica is a native perennial forb blooming July through September across the southeastern and south-central United States. This frostweed attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles with its white flower clusters.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
36"–72" H × 24"–36" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, FL, GA and 15 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Frostweed is a tall native perennial that produces clusters of small white flowers from summer into fall. This upright plant can reach 6 feet tall and spreads moderately, creating a substantial presence in the landscape. It thrives in partial sun with average moisture and provides late-season interest when many other plants are declining.
Growing Frostweed
Grow Frostweed in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 36 to 72 inches tall and spread 24 to 36 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Frostweed 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 growth appears wild and unstructured
- Can spread aggressively and look weedy
- Dies back completely in winter leaving bare stems
Wildlife value
Host plant for checkerspot butterfly.
The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and beetles during the critical late summer and fall period when nectar sources become scarce. Seeds provide food for birds in winter.
Common questions
- When does Verbesina virginica bloom?
- Verbesina virginica blooms from July through September, producing clusters of small white flowers that attract various pollinators.
- What pollinators visit frostweed?
- Frostweed attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles. The small white flowers provide nectar and pollen for these beneficial insects during late summer.
- Where is Verbesina virginica native?
- This species is native to 20 states across the southeastern and south-central United States, from Maryland south to Florida and west to Texas and Kansas.
- What growing conditions does frostweed prefer?
- Verbesina virginica tolerates a range of light conditions from full sun to partial shade and adapts to various moisture levels, making it a versatile native plant choice.
- Is Frostweed HOA-friendly?
- Frostweed takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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.
Ready to grow Frostweed? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz