Tall Elephantsfoot
Elephantopus elatus
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, FL, GA, LA and 2 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Tall elephantsfoot is a perennial that produces clusters of small purple flowers from summer through early fall. This moderate-sized wildflower grows in clumps and thrives in partial sun with average moisture conditions.
In an HOA neighborhood
Tall Elephantsfoot 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.
- Has a distinctly wild, weedy appearance
- Small flowers may not provide enough visual impact for front yards
- Growth form can appear unkempt to traditional gardeners
Wildlife value
The summer and fall blooms attract bees and butterflies, providing nectar during the later growing season when many other flowers have finished.
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 Tall Elephantsfoot fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.