Eupatorium greggii

Sunset

Zones 3A, 3B, 10-13

Full, Partial

Minimal

Perennials, Flowers

EUPATORIUM

These are generally large plants with big domes of small flower heads that are rich in nectar and pollen. Blossoms attract butterflies. Most of the species (including two of the four described here) are wild plants of eastern U.S. meadows, little noted until recently but now popular in perennial borders and naturalistic meadow plantings.

Eupatorium greggii

Native to Arizona, Texas. Weak-stemmed plant to 1 1/2–2 1/2 ft. high, 2–3 ft. wide, with clusters of fluffy lavender flowers from spring to fall. Lacy, divided leaves are somewhat hairy and usually sparse. Best with afternoon shade or light shade all day; good groundcover beneath desert trees. Drought-tolerantthough it looks best with occasional water. ‘Boothill’,first found near Tombstone, Arizona, is a choice form.