Overview
Eupatorium purpureum is a perennial in the genus Eupatorium, part of the Asteraceae family. It typically grows around 2.0 m tall. Eupatorium purpureum grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is native to Eastern and central North America.
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 purpureum is a clump-forming perennial from eastern and central North America, placed in the family Asteraceae. It typically reaches around 2.0 m and produces sweet-scented flower heads over the late summer months, with a flowering period from July to October. The scent and height make it a distinct presence through summer into autumn. Locate it in full sun where soil stays moist but drains freely; it tolerates sandy, loamy and clay textures provided they do not dry out completely. Plants are fully hardy in the UK (H7) and will also grow within USDA zones 3–9. Give individual specimens room to rise above lower perennials so flower heads are not lost among lower foliage. In a UK garden, Eupatorium purpureum works well at the rear of mixed borders or in larger perennial beds where its height provides vertical structure. It suits sites that remain reliably moist—an open, well-drained trench or a rain-collecting area rather than a dry patch. Expect its sweet-scented flower heads to perfume garden paths and borders from July to October.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Eupatorium
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Eupatorium purpureum size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Perennial
- Height
- 2.0 m
- Native to
- Eastern and central North America
- Fragrance
- Sweet-scented
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Eupatorium purpureum?
Eupatorium purpureum prefers full sun.
What soil does Eupatorium purpureum need?
Eupatorium purpureum is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How big does Eupatorium purpureum grow?
Eupatorium purpureum reaches a height of 2.0 m.
Is Eupatorium purpureum hardy in the UK?
Eupatorium purpureum has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
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More in the Eupatorium genus
- Eupatorium ageratoidesWhite Snakeroot
- Eupatorium cannabinum 'Plenum'Hemp-agrimony 'Plenum'
- Eupatorium fistulosum 'Ivory Towers'Hollow Joe-Pye Weed
- Eupatorium mac. 'Red Dwarf'