August Perennial of the Month-Joe Pye Weed
One of the best perennials for structure in the garden is the Joe Pye weed, Eutrochium, previously known as Eupatorium.
It’s a perennial that makes a statement, almost shrub-like with its presence. And when it comes to benefits, this perennial ticks a lot of boxes on the checklist. Most Eutrochium species tolerate, even prefer moist, wet areas, and so while other perennials are rotting away from too much moisture in a low spot, Joe Pye weeds are practically grinning ear-to-ear. This makes it a great addition to rain gardens, run-off areas, and other rainscapes.
Joe Pye weed is most valuable to insects and pollinators, from bees to beetles, moths, and birds. For example, Pearl Crescent butterfly (Phycoides tharos) larvae feed exclusively on Joe-Pye weed.
And then there is that common name… Joe Pye, a native shaman or medicine man, used this plant to concoct a cure for typhoid fever that was ravaging Colonial New England. Not too shabby for a mere perennial.
As with most plants, research is key, especially with Joe Pye weed and its numerous species and cultivars, which can range from three to ten feet tall. The taller species can become monsters and are prone to “Flop Disease,” as I like to call it. Those big, showy blooms can hold a lot of water, so it’s common to see the flopping after a summer storm or heavy downpour. There are many species and nativars to pick from.
Eutrochium dubium – Coastal Joe-Pye Weed 48-60″ high.
Eutrochium fitulosum – Hollow-stem Joe-Pye Weed 60-120’-yes 10’!
Eutrochium maculatum – Spotted Joe-Pye Weed 48-96″ high.
Eutrochium purpureum – Sweet-scented Joe-Pye Weed 36-72″ high.
Eutrochium maculatum ‘Red Dwarf’ 36″ high.
Eutrochium dubium ‘Baby Joe’ 24-36″ high.
Most Joe Pye weeds prefer full sun. Inadequate light can also lead to “Flop Disease.”
As we edge closer to the end of summer, plant-geeks start thinking about winter interest. Joe Pye flowers age well in place and give some great texture in the winter garden. It can be known to reseed, so make sure which is your priority.
What I love about this plant;
-It’s native!
-Structural perennial.
-Great pollinator plant.
-Great winter interest.
-Perfect for any rain-scape.
-Range of sizes available for any size garden including many nativars to pick from.
-Tolerant of road salt.
-Although MBG states it is deer resistant, deer have been known to munch on it in early spring before flowering.
What’s not so great;
-Can be prone to “Flop-Disease”, so if you have OCD in the garden, choose a shorter cultivar and give it plenty of sun and moisture.
-Can be prone to powdery mildew.
-Can reseed. If using dwarf cultivars, the seedlings may not be true to the parent plant and can grow much larger; therefore, deadheading or meticulous weeding is a good idea.
-Comments or questions? Email Garden-Lou at gardenloustl@gmail.com
Words and photos by Jo Batzer
© Jo Batzer, garden-lou.com-2025, All rights reserved.
