Overview
Eupatorium fistulosum 'Ivory Towers' is a perennial in the genus Eupatorium, part of the Asteraceae family. Eupatorium fistulosum 'Ivory Towers' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates moist and well-drained soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include borders, meadow gardens and wildlife gardens. It is native to Eastern North America.
About
Eupatorium fistulosum 'Ivory Towers' is a cultivar of Eupatorium (family Asteraceae) valued for its late-season flowering. It produces blooms from July to October. The selection name 'Ivory Towers' identifies this particular strain within the species. Its long flowering period makes it useful for extending nectar availability into autumn.
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 fistulosum 'Ivory Towers' belongs to the genus Eupatorium in the Asteraceae and is a named garden selection of that group. In its native range the species is associated with damp, fertile sites; this cultivar keeps the same late-summer to autumn flowering habit, producing its flowers from July to October. The extended bloom period makes it a reliable source of nectar well after many summer perennials have finished. Plants of this type favour soils that retain moisture and have good organic content; in cultivation they perform best where roots do not dry out completely. A position with sun or light shade will encourage the best flowering while keeping soil reliably damp supports sturdy stems and sustained bloom. Stems are typically upright and the flowerheads provide a vertical element through late summer and into autumn. In a UK garden place Eupatorium fistulosum 'Ivory Towers' towards the back of a mixed border, beside ponds, or at the edge of a wildflower meadow where its late-season display can be appreciated and where it contributes nectar for bees and butterflies. Pruning or cutting back after flowering can tidy the patch, but the main horticultural value is the prolonged flowering period from July to October and the structural presence it gives at that time of year.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Eupatorium
- Sunlight
- full sun, partial shade
- Soil type
- moist, well-drained
- Soil moisture
- moist
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Eupatorium fistulosum 'Ivory Towers' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- perennial
- Suggested uses
- borders, meadow gardens, wildlife gardens
- Native to
- Eastern North America
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Eupatorium fistulosum 'Ivory Towers'
- Cultivation
- Prefers moist, fertile soil; tolerates partial shade; benefits from staking due to height.
- Pruning
- Cut back to ground level in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Propagation
- Division in spring or autumn; seed propagation possible but less common for cultivars.
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Eupatorium fistulosum 'Ivory Towers'?
Prefers moist, fertile soil; tolerates partial shade; benefits from staking due to height.
Where is the best place to plant Eupatorium fistulosum 'Ivory Towers'?
Eupatorium fistulosum 'Ivory Towers' prefers full sun and partial shade.
What soil does Eupatorium fistulosum 'Ivory Towers' need?
Eupatorium fistulosum 'Ivory Towers' grows best in moist and well-drained soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.
How do I prune Eupatorium fistulosum 'Ivory Towers'?
Cut back to ground level in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Is Eupatorium fistulosum 'Ivory Towers' hardy in the UK?
Eupatorium fistulosum 'Ivory Towers' has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Eupatorium fistulosum 'Ivory Towers'?
Division in spring or autumn; seed propagation possible but less common for cultivars.