Wingstem (Actinomeris alternifolia) 2x2x3" Pot

A.k.a. yellow ironweed. A tall, hardy native that naturalizes well in moist soils. A perfect species to add to floodplains, woods edges, and scrubby fence rows for no-maintenance wildlife support. Supports a variety of pollinators and hosts the silvery checkerspot butterfly. Spreads via seeds, not rhizome. Rarely browsed by deer.

Light: Part Sun/Shade

Soil Moisture: Wet Mesic, Mesic

Soil Type: Loam

Height: 4'-8’

Bloom Color: Yellow

Bloom Time: Jul-Sep

Root Type: Fibrous

Notable Wildlife Interactions: Flowers attract bees, butterflies, moths, and wasps. Hosts the silvery checkerspot butterfly, moths such as the gold moth, and some smaller insects. Occasionally browsed by herbivores.

Notes: Verbesina alternifolia is the most up-to-date scientific name. The common name ‘yellow ironweed’ refers to wingstem and ironweed’s similar forms and habitat preferences. The two are often found growing together in the wild.