This tall woodland native produces huge dome-shaped clusters of vanilla-scented pink-purple flowers. More shade tolerant than other Joe-Pye species, it thrives in partial shade and woodland edges. Distinguished by its solid green stems with purple nodes and whorled leaves.

Native range: Eastern and central North America

Size: 4-7 feet tall, space 3-4 feet apart

Growing conditions: Partial shade to full sun, moist to average soil

Bloom period: July through September

Wildlife value: Attracts butterflies, bees, and other pollinators; essential for monarchs and swallowtails; seeds eaten by birds

Garden benefits: Deer resistant, vanilla-scented, shade tolerant, cut flower, attracts butterflies