Vernonia - Summer's Swan Song, 1 Pack
- Shipping Starts in Late March 2026
- Shipped as Small Starter Plants (2.5" Plugs)
- Sustainable Packaging
- Canada-Wide Shipping
Vernonia – Summer’s Swan Song
Summer’s Swan Song is a beautifully compact hybrid ironweed (Vernonia x) that brings dramatic late-season impact to gardens. Standing at around 30–36 inches tall on well-branched, upright stems, it remains sturdy even in windy conditions thanks to its interlocking flower branch architecture. The plant features deep purple, fluffy flower clusters that bloom prolifically for 5–6 weeks from early fall into mid‑October, offering vibrant color when many other perennials fade. Glossy olive‑green foliage—often tinged purple and perched on red stems—adds refined texture and contrast. This cultivar is both pollinator and wildlife‑friendly, attracting bees, butterflies (including monarchs), and hummingbirds, while offering resistance to deer and rabbits. It demonstrates impressive adaptability, thriving in well‑drained soils that range from average to dry and tolerating both sun and partial shade conditions. Bred from Vernonia lettermannii and Vernonia angustifolia ‘Plum Peachy’ by Dr. Jim Ault at the Chicago Botanic Garden, it represents a refined, garden‑friendly version of traditional ironweed—more compact, uniformly attractive, and remarkably reliable.
- 1 - 2.5" Plug
- Deep Purple Blooms
- Deer-Resistant
- Pollinator Friendly
| Specifications | Details |
|---|---|
| Colour | Deep purple flower clusters; olive‑green foliage with red stems |
| Hardiness Zone | 4 - 9 |
| Plant Height | ~30–36 in (75–90 cm); 31 in tall at 5 years |
| Plant Width | ~35–43 in (90–110 cm) |
| Sun Requirements | Full sun (ideal), tolerates partial shade |
| Fragrant | No |
| Deer Resistant | Yes |
| Plant Timing | Plant in spring or early summer |
| Bloom Timing | September - October |
| Plant Depth | Not specified |
| Plant Spacing | 35–43 in (90–110 cm) |
