Eutrochium dubium Baby Joe (Coastal Plain Joe Pye Weed)

More compact than the species, Eutrochium dubium 'Baby Joe' (Coastal Plain Joe Pye Weed) is an upright perennial with purple-spotted, unbranched stems boasting large dome-shaped clusters of small, pale lavender flowers in mid-summer to early fall. Borne atop erect, strong stems which are hollow, the long-lasting blossoms are attractive to butterflies and pollinators in search of nectar. They give way to attractive, soft buff colored seedheads, which persist well into winter. Ovate, coarsely-toothed, deep green leaves, up to 6 in. long (15 cm), are arranged in whorls along the erect stems. Native primarily to sandy swamps, riverbanks, and moist thickets in Eastern North America, Eutrochium dubium species is quite adaptable. It grows easily in a wide range of soils from moist, fertile, and humusy to sandy or gravelly and in full sun to part shade. Eutrochium dubium 'Baby Joe' provides a wonderful garden presence and late-season flowers at a time when choices may be limited. Use it in the informal setting of a cottage garden, in mixed borders or containers. Perfect for smaller gardens.

• Grows up to 3-4 ft. tall (90-120 cm) and 1-3 ft. wide (30-90 cm).
• Performs best in full sun to part shade in fertile, humus-rich, moist soils. Tolerates wet soils, and clay soils. Soils must not be allowed to dry out. More drought tolerant than the species.
• Very useful and adaptable in the garden, this is an excellent choice for mixed borders, cottage gardens, rain gardens, along ponds and streams or containers.
• No serious insect or disease problems. Deer resistant.
• Cut plants to the ground in late winter.