Eupatorium serotinum (Late Boneset)

Eupatorium serotinum (Late Boneset) is a rhizomatous perennial with erect stems clad with opposite, lanceolate leaves, up to 7 in. long (17 cm), with coarse serration along the margins. In early to late fall, large flat-topped clusters packed with 12-15 small, rayless, creamy-white flowers, appear at the tips of the stems. Blooming for about 4 weeks, the blossoms are attractive to bees, butterflies, skippers, moths, and beetles. Native to moist black soil prairies, moist meadows near rivers, swamps, areas near drainage ditches, pastures, and abandoned fields throughout eastern and central North America, Late Boneset provides a garden presence and late season flowers at a time when choices may be limited. It grows in open sunny areas and is not fussy about soil conditions. Late Boneset often spreads by rhizomes to form colonies. It is suitable for planting in a native plant garden and looks quite dramatic planted in great sweeps in the wild garden.

• Grows up to 3-6 ft. tall (90-180 cm). The size of this plant is significantly affected by moisture levels.
• Performs best in full sun to part shade in fertile, humus-rich, moist, well-drained soils.
• 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.
• Native to eastern and central North America.