Spotted Joe Pye Weed

Description

Eutrochium maculatum, commonly known as Spotted Joe Pye Weed, is a native perennial forb (wildflower). It typically grows 3-5 feet tall.

A variety of bees, butterflies, skippers, and moths are attracted to the flowers. Some bees may also collect pollen. The seeds are a minor source of food to the Swamp Sparrow. The foliage is not preferred as a food source for mammalian herbivores, although it may be browsed upon occasion by deer or rabbits.

No information available currently. Please let us know if you have any personal experience with livestock grazing this plant.

Easily grown in average, medium to wet soils in full sun. Tolerates some light afternoon shade, particularly in hot summer climates. Prefers moist, fertile, humusy soils which do not dry out. Cut plants to the ground in late winter. Tall plant for moist soils in borders, cottage gardens, meadows, native plant gardens, wild/naturalized areas or water margins.

Habitats include wet black soil prairies, wet sand prairies, sedge meadows, marshes, fens, and swampy thickets with small trees or shrubs. Spotted Joe-Pye Weed is partial to sandy wetlands, but it is also found in non-sandy wetlands. It is usually found in high quality natural areas, rather than degraded habitats with a history of disturbance.