About the genus
Eupatorium is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae, containing from 36 to 60 species depending on the classification system. Most are herbaceous perennials growing to 0.5–3 m (1.6–9.8 ft) tall. A few are shrubs.
Wikipedia contributors, "Eupatorium", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Eupatorium
In the garden
Eupatorium ageratoides sits in the genus Eupatorium within the daisy family (Asteraceae) and is sold under the common name White Snakeroot. Its flowering period runs from July to October, providing white heads through late summer and into autumn. Specific cultural requirements can vary between suppliers and taxa, so consult the plant label or nursery notes for precise advice on light, soil and hardiness for the stock you buy. As a general planning note, place specimens where their mid-to-late-summer blooms will be seen from paths or among other perennials that benefit from white accents late in the season. Remove spent flowering stems to tidy the planting after bloom if a neater look is required. Because the name white snakeroot also applies to Ageratina altissima, a species known to be poisonous, take care with identification and with siting near grazing animals or play areas. Expect the white flowering display to continue through July to October, making it useful for extending neutral-colour interest into the later months of the growing year.
Plant details
Eupatorium ageratoides size, habit and characteristics
- Toxicity
- Ageratina altissima, also known as white snakeroot, richweed, or white sanicle, is a poisonous perennial herb in the family Asteraceae, native to east
Frequently asked questions
Is Eupatorium ageratoides toxic?
Ageratina altissima, also known as white snakeroot, richweed, or white sanicle, is a poisonous perennial herb in the family Asteraceae, native to east.
From the Fenn Plants journal
- Notes on DaffodilsWhen to plant daffodil bulbs in the UK, how deep, how to naturalise them in grass, why daffodils stop flowering (“blindness”), and why you should never mix cut daffodils with other flowers.
- Keeping Your NerveHow to garden through a heatwave — the best time to water, why deep soaks beat daily sprinkles, caring for pots and vulnerable plants, and why you can let the lawn go brown.
- Made to LastHow to clean, store and protect garden pots and planters — the frost-proof vs frost-resistant difference, winter care for terracotta and ceramic, and how to reuse a broken pot.
More in the Eupatorium genus
- Eupatorium cannabinum 'Plenum'Hemp-agrimony 'Plenum'

- Eupatorium fistulosum 'Ivory Towers'Hollow Joe-Pye Weed

- Eupatorium purpureumJoe Pye Weed

- Eupatorium mac. 'Red Dwarf'