Spotted Joe-Pye Weed

Spotted Joe-Pye weed (Eutrochium maculatum) is a tall, clump-forming native perennial with purple-spotted stems, whorled leaves, and rounded clusters of pinkish-purple flowers. The [USDA NRCS fact sheet](https://plants.usda.gov/DocumentLibrary/factsheet/pdf/fs_eumam3.pdf) gives a 2–6-foot height and USDA zones 2–9; the [Morton Arboretum profile](https://mortonarb.org/plant-and-protect/trees-and-plants/spotted-joe-pye-weed/) describes plants 3–7 feet tall and 3–4 feet wide. ## Landscape Use Give the stems room at the back of a border, in a native planting, or beside a moist meadow edge. Underground rhizomes can form colonies, so leave space for gradual spread. ## Growing Conditions Plant in full sun or partial shade. It grows best in moist, rich soil, but can also grow in sandy or gravelly soil when enough moisture is available. It tolerates wet conditions and is a useful choice for sites that stay consistently damp; it is not drought tolerant. ## Seasonal Interest Pinkish-purple flower heads appear from mid to late summer and can continue into early autumn. Bees, butterflies, and other pollinators visit the nectar-rich flowers; seed heads later provide food for birds. ## Maintenance This is a low-maintenance perennial in suitable moist soil. Cut old stems back to the ground in spring as new growth begins. The [USDA NRCS profile](https://plants.usda.gov/DocumentLibrary/factsheet/pdf/fs_eumam3.pdf) and [Morton Arboretum guide](https://mortonarb.org/plant-and-protect/trees-and-plants/spotted-joe-pye-weed/) provide additional growing and wildlife details.