Missouri Ironweed
Vernonia missurica
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
36"–72" H × 24"–36" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, GA, IA and 11 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, moths
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Vernonia missurica is a tall native perennial that produces clusters of bright purple flowers from midsummer through fall. This robust wildflower grows 3-6 feet tall and spreads to form substantial clumps over time.
In an HOA neighborhood
Missouri Ironweed 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 weedy
- Spreads aggressively to form large colonies
- Dies back completely in winter leaving bare stems
Wildlife value
The purple blooms are magnets for butterflies, bees, and moths during late summer when few other natives are flowering. Seeds provide food for birds in fall and winter.
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 Missouri Ironweed fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.