Missouri Ironweed

Missouri Ironweed

Vernonia missurica
Family: Asteraceae (Aster Family)

Missouri Ironweed (Vernonia missurica) is a bold and beautiful native perennial found in moist prairies and open woodlands across Texas, including Southeast Texas. Recognized by its vivid purple flowers and upright growth, this plant is a magnet for pollinators and adds vibrant color and texture to native gardens and restoration areas.

• Scientific Name: Vernonia missurica
• Common Names: Missouri Ironweed
• Family: Asteraceae (Aster Family)
• Growth Habit: Upright, clump-forming perennial
• Height: 3-6 feet
• Leaves: Lance-shaped, dark green with slightly toothed edges
• Flowers: Clusters of bright purple, fluffy flower heads
• Bloom Time: Mid to late summer
• Wildlife Benefits: Attracts butterflies, bees, and other pollinators

Habitat & Range in Southeast Texas

Missouri Ironweed is typically found in:

• Moist Prairies & Meadows: Prefers rich, moist soils
• Open Woodlands & Stream Edges: Tolerates partial shade and periodic flooding
• Ditches & Roadsides: Establishes well in disturbed areas with good moisture

It prefers moist soils but can adapt to drier conditions once established.

Ecological Importance

• Pollinator Favorite: Provides essential nectar for late-season butterflies and bees
• Soil Enrichment: Deep roots improve soil structure and reduce erosion
• Biodiversity Booster: Enhances floral diversity and supports native insect populations

Landscaping & Gardening Uses

Missouri Ironweed is a showy addition to pollinator gardens and restoration sites:

• Rain Gardens & Wet Meadows: Thrives in moist, sunny areas
• Back Borders & Wildflower Gardens: Offers height and color late in the season
• Habitat Gardens: Supports a variety of native pollinators and beneficial insects

Planting & Care

• Sunlight: Full sun to light shade
• Soil: Prefers moist, rich soils but adaptable
• Water Needs: Moderate; tolerates periodic wet and dry spells
• Maintenance: Low; may benefit from trimming to control height or spread
• Companion Plants: Combines well with Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata), Blue Vervain (Verbena hastata), and Prairie Blazing Star (Liatris pycnostachya)

Fun Facts

• Ironweeds get their name from their tough, upright stems.
• Missouri Ironweed is one of the showiest species in its genus, especially attractive to monarch butterflies during migration.
• The plant’s vibrant purple blooms provide contrast to yellow and white prairie flowers.

Conservation & Native Plant Advocacy

Adding Missouri Ironweed to native landscapes helps strengthen pollinator networks, support wildlife diversity, and restore the natural beauty of Southeast Texas ecosystems.

Where to Find It