Overview
Vernonia lettermanii is a clump forming perennial herb in the genus Vernonia, part of the Asteraceae family, with deciduous foliage. Vernonia lettermanii grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, prairie planting, wildflower meadow and flower borders and beds. It is native to Oklahoma and Arkansas.
About
Vernonia lettermannii, the narrowleaf ironweed, is a plant species known only from Arkansas and Oklahoma. It grows on floodplains and terraces at elevations of 100–200 m (330–660 ft).
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Vernonia lettermannii
About the genus
Vernonia is a genus of about 350 species of forbs and shrubs in the family Asteraceae. Some species of this genus are known as ironweeds. Some species are edible and of economic value.
Wikipedia contributors, "Vernonia", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Vernonia
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Vernonia
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Poorly-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Vernonia lettermanii size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Perennial herb
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Prairie planting, Wildflower meadow, Flower borders and beds
- Native to
- Oklahoma, Arkansas
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Vernonia lettermanii
- Propagation
- Seed, Division
- Pest resistance
- Slugs, Leaf miners
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Vernonia lettermanii?
Vernonia lettermanii prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Vernonia lettermanii need?
Vernonia lettermanii is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to poorly-drained.
Is Vernonia lettermanii hardy in the UK?
Vernonia lettermanii has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Vernonia lettermanii?
Seed, Division.
