Eupatorium altissimum (Tall Boneset)

Providing large drifts of milky-white flowers in late summer, Eupatorium altissimum (Tall Boneset) is a rhizomatous perennial with erect stems clad with opposite, short-petioled, lanceolate leaves, 2-6 in. long (5-16 cm). In mid-summer to fall, large flat-topped clusters, up to 8 in. wide (20 cm), densely packed with small, rayless, white flowers, appear at the tips of the stems. Blooming for about 6 weeks, the blossoms are attractive to butterflies and pollinators in search of nectar. Native to dry upland prairies, open woods, thickets, clearings, and fields throughout eastern and central North America, Tall Boneset provides a garden presence and late-season flowers at a time when choices may be limited. It is the easiest boneset to grow in dry sunny areas. Tall Boneset is suitable for planting in a native plant garden, at the back of a mixed bed, or as a ground cover for exposed sites.

• Grows up to 2-6 ft. tall (60-180 cm) and 2-3 ft. wide (60-90 cm). It will spread by self-seeding and vegetatively through rhizomes.
• Performs best in full sun to part shade in dry to medium moisture, well-drained soils. Drought tolerant once established.
• Great for wildflower gardens, cottage gardens, prairies and meadows, native plant gardens, and naturalized areas.
• No serious insect or disease problems. Deer resistant.
• Deadhead to prevent unwanted seedlings. Cut back after the first frost.
• Propagate by seed.
• Widely distributed throughout most of the eastern and central unites States from Texas and Nebraska eastward to Florida and north to New York, Massachusetts, and Connecticut.