Eupatorium capillifolium (Dog Fennel)

Totally unlike the other Eupatorium species, Eupatorium capillifolium (Dog Fennel) is an upright perennial, prized for its tall, stiff, columnar stems clothed in feathery, finely-dissected, bright green leaves. The leaves are pinnately divided into thread-like segments. Dull pinkish-white tiny and insignificant flowers bloom in late and fall. Native to fields, clearings, woodland margins and roadsides of the southeastern United States, Dog Fennel is a very unusual foliage plant. Its soft and delicate look is perfect for the back of the border or open woodlands in dry or wet soils. Dog Fennel can become aggressively weedy but is very attractive to butterflies and other insects.

• Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
• Grows up to 3-6 ft. tall (90-180 cm) and 2-3 ft. wide (60-90 cm). Can spread quickly by self-seeding and spreading rootstocks.
• Performs best in full sun to part shade in average, moist, well-drained soils. Tolerates most soil types, including dry, sandy soils. Good drought tolerance once established.
• Very useful and adaptable in the garden, this is an excellent choice for borders, city gardens, cottage gardens, containers.
• No serious pest or disease issues. Keep an eye out for slugs and aphids.
• Cut back at the end of the season.
• Propagate by seed sown in containers in cold frame. Divide in spring.
• Native to the southeastern United States, from southern Florida west to eastern Texas. Its range extends north to Tennessee, Virginia, and New Jersey. It is occasional farther north along the East Coast to Massachusetts.