Tall Thoroughwort
Eupatorium altissimum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
36"–72" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, CT, FL and 26 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, wasps, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Tall thoroughwort is a native perennial that forms upright clumps with clusters of small white flowers from summer through early fall. This sturdy plant grows 3-6 feet tall with a narrow spread, making it useful as a vertical accent in gardens.
In an HOA neighborhood
Tall Thoroughwort 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.
- Height can appear overgrown in formal settings
- May look weedy when not in bloom
- Common name includes 'wort' which sounds undesirable
Wildlife value
The late-season blooms provide important nectar for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators when many other flowers have finished. Seeds also feed 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 Tall Thoroughwort fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.