Description

• Eupatorium has lance-shaped leaves arranged alternately around a thick stiff stem with three to five leaves per node. The slightly serrated leaves smell like vanilla when crushed. Its flowers are actually clusters of tiny lavender flowers. The cluster or panicle may be 18 inches across. The florets become achenes, which are dry seeds with hairy protrusions that catch the wind. Joe Pye thrives in sunny to partially shady locations with consistent moisture. Eupatorium is in the aster family.
  
  

Insect Pests

• The perennial is remarkably resistant to pests but is extremely attractive to pollinators. The few problems it has with pests are leaf hoppers or grasshoppers, flea beetles and saw flies. Their feeding behavior will leave the Eupatorium purpureum foliage ragged and holey. In most cases, the damage is just visual and will not hurt the plant. If the insects show up in great numbers, it is best to resort to a good biological insecticide. Slugs and snails can also attack the foliage, while aphids appear on new growth and on the tips of the flower buds.
  
  

Diseases

• Eupatorium is a hardy plant with few problems, but it can get fungal leaf diseases and leaf scorch. In extremely hot zones, it is best to plant the Joe Pye in a dappled light or partially shady area to protect the leaves from the midday sun. Excess overhead moisture will promote the formation of fungal spores. Water from the bottom of the plant to protect the leaves from fungal damage. This will prevent rust, leaf spot and other diseases.
  
  

Uses

• Joe Pye is more popular in Europe than the United States, where it is considered a weed in many areas. It is native to North America and is widely distributed across the Eastern states. The large plant is useful as a summer border or a backdrop in a perennial garden. Although livestock may graze on eupatorium, deer eschew the plant. It makes a striking addition to a deer-proof summer and fall garden.