A tall, elegant perennial with distinctive whorled leaves and striking candelabra-like spikes of small white flowers that bloom for several weeks in midsummer.

Native range: Eastern North America from southern Maine to northwest Florida, west to Minnesota and northern Louisiana, extending into southeastern Canada

Size: 3-6 feet tall, 2-4 feet wide, space 2-3 feet apart

Growing conditions: Full sun to light shade, medium to wet well-drained soil. Tolerates various soil types. Prefers consistent moisture

Bloom period: Mid-summer through late August, blooming for up to 6 weeks

Wildlife value: Attracts butterflies, bumblebees, and other solitary bees; particularly valuable for migrating monarch butterflies. Larval host for Culver's root borer moth

Garden benefits: Excellent cut flower, deer resistant, low maintenance once established, provides dramatic vertical interest, self-seeds readily