Eupatorium fortunei is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to Asia and is commonly referred to as Joe-Pye Weed or Hardy Ageratum. The plant produces clusters of purple or pink flowers during the late summer and early fall.
Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Eupatorium |
Appearance
Eupatorium fortunei can grow up to 6 feet tall and 4 feet wide. The plant has dark green leaves that are lance-shaped and toothed at the edges. The leaves are arranged in whorls around the stem, and the stems are reddish-purple in color. The plant produces clusters of small, fluffy, pink or purple flowers that bloom from late summer to early fall.
Care Guide
Water: Eupatorium fortunei prefers moist soil, so it should be watered regularly, especially during hot and dry periods.
Fertilization: The plant can benefit from a slow-release fertilizer applied in the spring and mid-summer.
Soil: Eupatorium fortunei prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Eupatorium fortunei is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eupatorium fortunei is generally pest and disease resistant. However, it may be susceptible to powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot if the plant is grown in poorly drained soil.
Habitat
Eupatorium fortunei is native to Asia and grows in moist meadows, streambanks, and open woods. It can also be found in gardens and landscapes as an ornamental plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Eupatorium fortunei deer resistant?
A: Yes, Eupatorium fortunei is deer resistant.
Q: How often should I fertilize Eupatorium fortunei?
A: Eupatorium fortunei can benefit from a slow-release fertilizer applied in the spring and mid-summer.
Q: Can Eupatorium fortunei grow in containers?
A: Yes, Eupatorium fortunei can be grown in containers, but it will require frequent watering.
Q: When should I prune Eupatorium fortunei?
A: Eupatorium fortunei should be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Related Plants
- Eupatorium maculatum
- Eupatorium perfoliatum
- Eupatorium purpureum
- Eupatorium rugosum
References
- “Eupatorium fortunei.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279015. Accessed 23 Sept. 2021.
- “Joe-Pye Weed.” National Gardening Association, garden.org/plants/view/722/Joe-Pye-Weed-Eupatorium-fortunei/. Accessed 23 Sept. 2021.
