Description

Turn your garden into a pollinator haven with Iron Butterfly ironweed. This standout selection of Vernonia lettermannii produces clouds of vivid purple flowers in late summer—right when many pollinators need nectar the most. Butterflies, native bees, and other beneficial insects flock to its blooms, bringing life and movement to sunny borders and pollinator gardens.

Unlike many ironweeds, Iron Butterfly features finely textured, thread-like foliage that creates a soft, airy look all season long. Its tidy, upright habit makes it easy to fit into perennial beds, prairie plantings, and wildlife gardens without taking over. Tough, drought tolerant once established, and deer resistant, this native perennial delivers beauty with very little maintenance.

Iron Butterfly comes from Dr. Allan Armitage’s trials at the University of Georgia. Drought tolerant, full sun plant is a butterfly magnet.

Why pollinators love it

• Rich purple blooms packed with nectar

• Late-season flowers support butterflies and bees when few plants are blooming

• Native plant that supports local ecosystems

Sold in 1 gallon pots

Full Sun

Height 30-36 inches.

Perennial  in zones 4-9

Herb/Edible plant

Deer resistant.

Photo credit ~ North Creek Nursery