Frostweed
© Winnie Burkett, Bolivar Peninsula
Verbesina virginica
Family: Asteraceae (Aster Family)
The flowers form in small clusters which combine into large flat clusters. Stems are hairy. At the first freeze, the stems split. As the sap runs out, it forms showy, flower-like ribbons of ice. Frostweed is easy to grow. It spreads via rhizomes to form large colonies.
- Scientific Name: Verbesina virginica
- Common Names: Frostweed, White Crownbeard, Iceplant, Iceweed, Virginia Crownbeard, Indian Tobacco, Richweed, Squawweed
- Family: Asteraceae (Aster Family)
- Growth Habit: Perennial, Biennial
- Height: 3 to 7 feet
- Leaves: Large, lance-shaped
- Flowers: White
- Bloom Time: August through November
- Wildlife Benefits: The flowers are nectar magnets for butterflies, bees, and other insects. Larval host for silvery checkerspot and bordered patch butterflies.
Frozen stems after a freeze © Winnie Burkett
Where to Find It
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Interested in adding Frostweed to your garden? Check if this is in stock or add to cart to purchase directly from our Natives Nursery.
