Eutrochium maculatum Open-pollinated. Perennial to Zone 4. Formerly Eupatorium maculatum. Also known as Queen of the Meadow or Gravel Root. Stately, tall and beautiful, with dense florets of dusty pinkish-purple flowers held on strong stems that rarely need staking. At 5–9' tall, makes an impressive background plant or summer hedge and a good cutflower. Blooms for many weeks through July and August, attracting flocks of butterflies. Medicinally, a tea made from the whole herb is diuretic, used in the treatment of kidney complaints. The leaves and stems can be harvested and dried before the flower buds open. A tea made from the roots is used in the treatment of fevers, colds, kidney and liver complaints, and rheumatism. It is said to have a tonic effect during pregnancy and may also induce sweating. Externally, a decoction of the roots is used as a wash on rheumatic joints.
Does best in moist well-drained areas, full sun or part shade. Surface sow in spring or fall; needs stratification unless sown in fall; takes 3 weeks to germinate; direct seed or transplant. About 2,800 seeds/g. Especially attractive to pollinators.①
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Joe Pye Weed
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Joe Pye Weed
Tall architectural clump-forming North American native wildflowers feature big soft terminal clusters of mini pink florets on strong stems from midsummer to early fall. Whorls of lance-shaped serrated leaves look good all summer. Chickadees like to pick at the tawny dried seed heads in winter. Flowers can be used for dyeing.
Choose a planting site where Eutrochium can naturalize at the back of a border, or along the edge of a wood. We’ve let ours spread into a tall perennial hedge right along the front of the house where it mingles in full sun with globe thistle and goldenrod. The deer don’t seem interested, but pollinators abound!
Native to eastern North America, found along the edges of moving water, in damp meadows, and in moist roadside ditches. Readily spreads from seed and underground rhizomes, so plant it thoughtfully if you are working in a small space. All three species we’re offering do well in moist soil and full sun. They can handle part to full shade, although they might need support.
Germination Testing
For the latest results of our germination tests, please see the germination page.
Our Seeds are Non-GMO
All of our seeds are non-GMO, and free of neonicotinoids and fungicides. Fedco is one of the original companies to sign the Safe Seed Pledge.
