Vernonia lettermannii 'Iron Butterfly' (Ironweed)

Vernonia lettermannii ‘Iron Butterfly’ – Narrowleaf Ironweed

Add fine texture and rich late-season color to sunny gardens with this compact native Ironweed. Slender, threadlike green foliage forms a soft, airy mound through the growing season, giving the plant a delicate appearance while remaining remarkably tough and adaptable.

In late summer, clusters of vivid purple flowers appear above the foliage, attracting butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. ‘Iron Butterfly’ fits especially well in sunny borders, native plantings, prairie-style gardens, and pollinator beds where its fine foliage contrasts beautifully with broader-leaved perennials.

Narrowleaf Ironweed is valued for its heat and drought tolerance, deer resistance, and dependable late-season bloom. It performs best in full sun and well-drained soil.

Plant Details:
Height: 24–36 inches
Light: Full sun
Zones: 4–9
Soil: Well-drained

Features:
Vivid purple late-summer flowers
Fine, threadlike foliage
Attracts butterflies & other pollinators
Drought tolerant
Deer resistant