Spotted Joe-Pye weed (Eutrochium maculatum)

Spotted Joe-Pye weed

Also known as: Joe Pye weed, Spotted trumpetweed

Spotted Joe-Pye weed is a perennial plant native to North America. It can grow as tall as 2 m. It is often found in damp or wet areas, such as marshlands and swamps, and it produces purplish-pink colored flowers at the top of stems that are purple or green with purple spots.

Scientific classification

Species

Spotted Joe-Pye weed (Eutrochium maculatum)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

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Weeds

Weed or not

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Pink, Purple, Red

Flower Color

Purple, Green, Pink

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Spotted Joe-Pye weed

Attributes of Spotted Joe-Pye weed

Growth Rate

In summer, spotted Joe-Pye weed exhibits a rapid growth rate, stimulating an increase in leaf production and plant height. This vigorous development often culminates in an abundant display of terminal flower clusters. As a result of the quick summer growth, spotted Joe-Pye weed's overall landscape impact is greatly enhanced. Note that growth rates may vary in other seasons, but summer is the primary growing period for this plant.

Culture

Garden Use

Spotted Joe-Pye weed is popular with gardeners due to its impressive height, deep purple-red stems, and swaths of mauve-colored flowers. Spotted Joe-Pye weed is a wonderful choice as a back-row garden plant or grown in wet areas (like pond margins) where other plants usually wouldn't thrive. Perfect in rain, cottage, and wildlife gardens.

Symbolism

Delay, Eye-catching rose-purple mauve flowers

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Spotted Joe-Pye weed, including the following common varieties :

Bonesets 'Purple Bush'

Quickly Identify Spotted Joe-Pye weed

Whorled lance-shaped leaves with sharp toothed margins

Flat-topped clusters of purplish disk florets without ray florets

Robust purple-streaked stems with fine hairs

Small, hairy achenes for wind dispersal

Upright growth habit reaching up to 6 feet tall

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Care Guide for Spotted Joe-Pye weed

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from moist habitats, spotted Joe-Pye weed prefers consistently moist conditions and is moderately drought-tolerant once established. Water weekly to meet hydration needs, especially during its growing season, to support its foliage and flowering.

Fertilize: Spotted Joe-Pye weed thrives with balanced nutrition, requiring monthly fertilization during growth phases and sparingly in dormancy. Over-fertilization can weaken resilience. Use diluted liquid fertilizers for controlled release, adjusting amounts seasonally. Avoid root zone concentration to prevent burn, and practice safety measures when handling fertilizers.

Pruning: Spotted Joe-Pye weed, recognized for its tall stems and pink-purple flowers, benefits from early to late spring pruning. Techniques include removing dead stems and cutting back post-bloom. This practice enhances airflow, reduces disease risk, and supports vigorous flowering, ensuring alignment with spotted Joe-Pye weed's natural growth cycle.

Propagation: Spotted Joe-Pye weed propagation is best achieved by sowing seeds in early Spring. Moderate challenges may arise, but signs of successful growth include healthy roots and vigorous development. Ensuring regular moisture and filtered sunlight is vital for optimal results.

Repotting: Repot spotted Joe-Pye weed every 2-3 years in early spring to enhance growth. Use a larger pot with good drainage. After repotting, water thoroughly and provide indirect light. Maintain regular moisture and avoid over-fertilizing for optimal growth of this low-maintenance plant.

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