Eupatorium serotinum, commonly known as Late boneset, is a native perennial plant found in moist woodlands, meadows, and along streambanks in Illinois. It thrives in well-drained, moist soils and prefers full sun to partial shade.
This plant features opposite, lance-shaped leaves and produces clusters of small, white, star-like flowers in late summer to fall (usually around late August to October). The flowers are highly attractive to pollinators, especially butterflies and bees. Eupatorium serotinum typically grows to a height of 3 to 6 feet, with a tall, upright, bushy growth habit.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Eupatorium serotinum is an excellent choice for late-season garden interest, as it blooms later than many other wildflowers. It is well-suited for naturalized landscapes, meadow plantings, and wetland restorations. The plant provides important nectar for pollinators during the fall months, when other nectar sources may be scarce. Eupatorium serotinum is relatively low-maintenance once established, requiring moist, rich soil and full to partial sun. Its fibrous root system helps stabilize soil and control erosion, making it valuable for planting along streambanks or in wetland areas. It also offers a striking vertical form and can be a beneficial addition to wildflower meadows, prairies, or mixed borders.
Eupatorium serotinum, commonly known as Late boneset, is a native perennial plant found in moist woodlands, meadows, and along streambanks in Illinois. It thrives in well-drained, moist soils and prefers full sun to partial shade.
This plant features opposite, lance-shaped leaves and produces clusters of small, white, star-like flowers in late summer to fall (usually around late August to October). The flowers are highly attractive to pollinators, especially butterflies and bees. Eupatorium serotinum typically grows to a height of 3 to 6 feet, with a tall, upright, bushy growth habit.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Eupatorium serotinum is an excellent choice for late-season garden interest, as it blooms later than many other wildflowers. It is well-suited for naturalized landscapes, meadow plantings, and wetland restorations. The plant provides important nectar for pollinators during the fall months, when other nectar sources may be scarce. Eupatorium serotinum is relatively low-maintenance once established, requiring moist, rich soil and full to partial sun. Its fibrous root system helps stabilize soil and control erosion, making it valuable for planting along streambanks or in wetland areas. It also offers a striking vertical form and can be a beneficial addition to wildflower meadows, prairies, or mixed borders.
Bloom: late summer to early fall
Habitats: abandoned fields; areas near drainage ditches; low-lying areas along railroads and roadsides; moist black soil prairies; moist meadows near rivers; pastures; swamps
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: moist
Plant type (height): forb (3 to 6 feet)
Requirements: full sun to partial sun
Soil: loamy and high in organic matter
