Veronica gigantea 
(Giant Ironweed, Tall Ironweed)

Synonyms:  Vernonia altissima lilacina, Vernonia altissima gigantea taeniotricha
Origin:  Kentucky, USA
Family:  Asteraceae
Light:  Sun-part shade
Blooms:  Magenta, mid-Summer
Foliage:  Herbaceous, velvety
Soil:  Well-drained, moist, acidic, neutral
Water:  Moderate
Uses:  Back of border, butterfly garden, bird garden
Propagation:  Seeds
Caution:  Plant is invasive.  Plant can cause skin allergy

Comments:  Veronica gigantea or Giant Ironweed, Tall Ironweed or Vernonia altissima lilacina or Vernonia altissima gigantea taeniotricha is a flowering perennial herbaceous plant with an upright growth habit.  It is a native of Kentucky and is related to the Aster family.  In mid-Summer, Veronica gigantea produces terminal magenta blossoms, followed later by seeds.  Butterflies and bees are magnetized by the nectar-rich flowers while the birds enjoy feasting on the seeds.  Giant Ironweed is easily propagated from seeds.  It thrives best in well-drained, moist, acidic or neutral soil in a sunny to part shade environment.  Tall Ironweed is low maintenance.  It is deer resistant. 
Vermonia altissima gigantea taeniotricha self sows easily so trim spent flowerheads to avoid having volunteer plants next season.  Mass plant Vernonia altissima lilacina in the back of the border for a showy display.  Vernonia altissima gigantea taeniotricha is towering and easily spotted from a distance.  It is very eye-catching.   

USDA Zones:  5-9

JennysGarden.com...Plant image and gardening descriptions of Veronica gigantea  (Giant Ironweed, Tall Ironweed, Vernonia altissima lilacina, Vernonia altissima gigantea taeniotricha) growing in Jenny's Garden

Image of butterfly and bird attractor, Veronica gigantea or Giant Ironweed, Tall Ironweed or Vernonia altissima lilacina or Vernonia altissima gigantea taeniotricha

Image shows the pretty blossoms of Veronica gigantea

Seed inquiries:  jen@JennysGarden.com