'Gateway' Joe Pye Weed

Like its parent plant, 'Gateway' is an herbaceous perennial native to the eastern and central United States and Canada. It grows to 4 to 6 feet tall with whorls of leaves on reddish stems. It is unbranched, except for flowerhead-bearing stalks near the top of the plant, where, in mid-summer, the tiny dusky-pink flowers appear in large, densely packed clusters. Flowers give way to attractive seed heads, which persist well into winter if left uncut. The root system is fibrous and rhizomatous.

Growing Conditions

'Gateway' is easy to grow in average moist to wet soils in full sun to partial shade, but tolerates some light afternoon shade in hot summer climates. It prefers moist soil that does not dry out. Use in the back of the border, as a specimen, along water margins, moist woodland edges, naturalized areas, or native pollinator gardens. It is not drought-tolerant and does not perform well in hot, dry summers; it is best with consistently moist soil. Leaves may scorch if soil is allowed to dry out. This plant is resistant to damage by deer and rabbits.

Maintenance

You can cut the plants to the ground in late winter or early spring, but the seedheads offer winter interest and nutrition for winter wildlife. You can divide the plant in spring or fall and replant it in a new site.

Ecological Value: Wildlife, Insects, Etc.

The larvae of numerous moth species will use Joe Pye Weed as a host plant. Butterflies and bees are also attracted to Joe Pye Weed.

Landscaping

Use in rain gardens and native and pollinator gardens, especially in the back of the garden, since it is tall.

Ethnobotany

The origins of Joe Pye Weed date to the Native American tribes. Legend has it that a tribal leader named Joe Pye used this plant medicinally to treat a variety of ailments, including fevers.

Pests and Diseases

No serious problems.

Varieties

There are cultivars of this plant, such as ‘Sweet Joe Pye,’ ‘Spotted Joe Pye,’ and ‘Coastal Joe Pye.’

Companion Plants and Suggestions for Pairings

July to September bloom when paired with Rudbeckia ‘Autumn Sun’ and tall ornamental grasses are beautiful.

References

• North Carolina State University Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox - Eutrochium maculatum 'Gateway' 
• USDA Plants Database Plant Profile - Eutrochium purpureum