Florida Ironweed Seeds 25 Vernonia angustifolia Native Wildflower Pollinator Perennial

Florida Ironweed (Vernonia angustifolia) is a native perennial wildflower prized for its tall, upright stems and clusters of vibrant purple flowers that bloom from summer into fall. This pollinator-friendly plant is a magnet for butterflies and bees, making it an excellent choice for natural gardens, meadow plantings, and wildlife habitats. Its narrow leaves and striking floral display add vertical interest and a splash of color to any landscape.

Florida Ironweed is well-suited to informal garden settings, cottage gardens, and native plant collections. It thrives in full sun and tolerates a range of soil conditions, including moist to dry sites. Its robust growth and late-season blooms provide valuable nectar for pollinators when many other plants have finished flowering.

Plant Features

• Native perennial wildflower
• Purple flower clusters bloom summer to fall
• Attracts butterflies and bees
• Narrow, lance-shaped leaves
• Upright growth habit

Growing Information

• Botanical Name: Vernonia angustifolia
• Plant Type: Perennial
• Sunlight: Full sun
• Soil: Moist to dry, well-drained soil
• Water Requirements: Moderate; drought tolerant once established
• Growth Habit: Upright
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 8-10
• Bloom Season: Summer to fall
• Mature Height: 3-6 feet
• Spacing: 18-24 inches

Planting & Care

Sow Florida Ironweed seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost or directly outdoors in fall after the first frost. Lightly cover seeds with soil, as they need light to germinate. Keep the soil consistently moist until germination, which typically occurs in 2-4 weeks at 65-75°F (18-24°C). Once seedlings have several true leaves, transplant them to their permanent location after hardening off.

Florida Ironweed prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Water regularly during the first growing season to help establish a deep root system. Once established, it is relatively low-maintenance and drought tolerant. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage additional blooms or leave seed heads for birds. Cut back stems in late winter to promote fresh growth in spring.

What's Included

25 Florida Ironweed seeds (Vernonia angustifolia).