Missouri Ironweed
Vernonia missurica
Last reviewed: June 2026
Vernonia missurica (Missouri Ironweed) is a native prairie forb blooming purple from July through September across the central and southeastern United States. This drought-tolerant wildflower attracts bees, butterflies, and moths to prairies and natural gardens.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Missouri Ironweed as toxic to livestock.
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.
Growing Missouri Ironweed
Grow Missouri Ironweed in full 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
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.
Common questions
- When does Missouri Ironweed bloom?
- Missouri Ironweed blooms from July through September, producing clusters of purple flowers that attract pollinators during late summer.
- What pollinators visit Missouri Ironweed?
- Bees, butterflies, and moths are attracted to Missouri Ironweed's nectar-rich purple flowers, making it valuable for pollinator gardens.
- Where is Missouri Ironweed native?
- Missouri Ironweed is native to 16 states across the central and southeastern United States, including Missouri, Illinois, Kansas, Texas, Alabama, and Georgia.
- What growing conditions does Missouri Ironweed prefer?
- Missouri Ironweed thrives in full sun with medium moisture but tolerates various water conditions from wet to dry soils once established.
- Is Missouri Ironweed toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Missouri Ironweed as toxic to livestock.
- Is Missouri Ironweed HOA-friendly?
- Missouri Ironweed 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 Missouri Ironweed? 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