Eupatorium fistulosum (Joe-pye weed)

Eupatorium fistulosum (Joe-pye weed). . , Family: Asteraceae (Aster or Composite Family), Distribution: Joe-pye weed is widely distributed throughout the eastern United States, west into Texas, and Quebec. This plant is common in almost every county of West Virginia., Size: This plant normally grows 5-7 ft. However, it can reach 12 ft. high., Habitat/Description: This whorled-leaved, perennial herb grows in rich bottomlands, lower slopes, meadows, bogs, marshes, and alluvial woods. It prefers moist to wet soils exposed to full sun or partial shade. However, if there is sufficient moisture, it will grow in gravelly or sandy soils. Conspicuous, attractive mauve pink or purple flowers bloom between July and September. Long-tongued bees, skippers, and butterflies are attracted to the flower nectar of Joe-pye weed. Seeds ripen about a month after flowering. Because it is hollow-stemmed, this plant is not drought-tolerant. The leaves are eaten by flea beetles, saw flies, caterpillars, and grasshoppers. This is a native, non-invasive species., Ethnobotanical Uses: Native Americans used this plant to make a diuretic tea. Tea made from the roots treated liver ailments, a sore womb after childbirth, kidney ailments, chills, cold, fever, and diarrhea. A wash made from the tea of roots was also used to treat rheumatism.