'Southern Cross' Ironweed

'Southern Cross' Ironweed (Vernonia 'Southern Cross')

'Southern Cross' Ironweed is a compact, hybrid perennial known for its refined, thread-like foliage and clusters of vivid purple flowers. A dwarfing variety, it grows to about 3-4 feet in height, making it perfect for smaller gardens or spaces needing more manageable, vertical interest. Blooming from late summer into fall, this variety provides vital late-season nectar for pollinators, including bees and butterflies. Thriving in moist to moderately wet soils, it's ideal for rain gardens, meadows, and streambank stabilization.

Key Characteristics:

• Pollinator Magnet: 'Southern Cross' Ironweed offers crucial late-season nectar for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects when many other plants have finished blooming.

• Dwarfing Growth Habit: Unlike traditional Ironweed varieties that can grow quite tall, 'Southern Cross' is a more compact version, reaching just 3-4 feet. Its smaller stature makes it ideal for garden borders, meadows, and naturalized landscapes where a less imposing plant is desired.

• Moisture-Loving: Thriving in moist to moderately wet soils, 'Southern Cross' Ironweed is perfect for rain gardens, wet meadows, and streambanks. It can handle occasional wetness but also tolerates well-drained soils.

• Late-Season Color: The vibrant purple blooms appear from late summer through early fall, adding color when many other perennials are winding down, keeping the garden lively and supporting pollinators.

• Deer Resistant: As with other Ironweed species, 'Southern Cross' is unpalatable to deer, making it a reliable choice for deer-prone areas.

Product Details:

• Hybrid range: Derived from native Ironweed species
• Plant life cycle: Perennial
• Sun requirements: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil requirements: Moist to moderately wet soils
• Mature height: 3-4 feet
• Bloom time: Late summer to early fall (August to October)
• Bloom color: Purple
• USDA Hardiness zones: 4-8

'Southern Cross' Ironweed is a compact, easy-care perennial perfect for adding height and color to smaller spaces, rain gardens, or meadows. Its dwarf habit, pollinator benefits, and deer resistance make it a great fit for various garden styles.