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Description
Eupatorium Maculatum Purple Bush, also known as Joe-Pye weed, is a herbaceous perennial plant that is native to North America. It typically grows up to 6 feet tall and has a spread of about 4 feet. The plant produces large clusters of mauve to purple flowers that bloom from mid to late summer. The flowers are highly attractive to pollinators such as butterflies and bees.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Eupatorium |
Appearance
The Eupatorium Maculatum Purple Bush has an upright growth habit and can grow up to 6 feet tall. The plant has large, ovate to lanceolate leaves that are arranged in whorls along the stem. The leaves are typically 4 to 8 inches long and have a rough texture. The plant produces large clusters of mauve to purple flowers that bloom from mid to late summer. The flowers are highly attractive to pollinators such as butterflies and bees.
Care Guide
Eupatorium Maculatum Purple Bush is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to take care of this plant:- Water: The plant requires moderate watering. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter months.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.- Soil: The plant prefers moist, well-draining soil. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types but prefers slightly acidic soil.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but will produce fewer flowers in shady conditions.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eupatorium Maculatum Purple Bush is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, some common pests and diseases that can affect this plant include:- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves. To prevent powdery mildew, water the plant at the base and avoid overhead watering.- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. To control spider mites, spray the plant with a strong stream of water or use insecticidal soap.- Aphids: These small insects can cause distortion of the leaves and shoots. To control aphids, spray the plant with a strong stream of water or use insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Eupatorium Maculatum Purple Bush is native to North America and is commonly found in wet meadows, marshes, and along stream banks. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types and can grow in both sunny and shady conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Eupatorium Maculatum Purple Bush deer resistant?
A: Yes, this plant is deer resistant.Q: Can Eupatorium Maculatum Purple Bush be grown in containers?
A: It is possible to grow this plant in containers, but it may require frequent watering and fertilization.Q: Can Eupatorium Maculatum Purple Bush be propagated by cuttings?
A: Yes, this plant can be propagated by stem cuttings taken in the spring or fall.Q: Does Eupatorium Maculatum Purple Bush have any medicinal properties?
A: Yes, some Native American tribes used the roots of this plant to treat a variety of ailments such as fever, kidney problems, and rheumatism.
Related Plants
– Eupatorium Purpureum (sweet Joe-Pye weed)- Eupatorium Fistulosum (hollow Joe-Pye weed)- Eupatorium Rugosum (white snakeroot)
References
– Missouri Botanical Garden. Eupatorium maculatum. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286950- University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum. Eupatorium maculatum. https://arboretum.wisc.edu/trees-plants/eupatorium-maculatum/- Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Eupatorium maculatum. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=EUMA3
