Wingstem (Verbesina alternifolia)

from $4.00

Verbesina alternifolia, commonly known as Wingstem, is a tall, native perennial wildflower found in moist woodlands, floodplains, and along streambanks throughout Illinois. It thrives in rich, moist to medium soils and prefers full sun to partial shade.

This plant grows 3 to 8 feet tall and is easily recognized by its winged stems and clusters of bright yellow, daisy-like flowers that bloom from late summer to early fall. It is an excellent nectar source for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, while its seeds provide food for birds in the fall and winter.

For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Verbesina alternifolia is a great choice for naturalized gardens, rain gardens, and pollinator habitats. Its tall, upright form makes it a striking addition to meadows and woodland edges, pairing well with other late-season bloomers like Goldenrod, Joe-Pye Weed, and Ironweed.

Size:

Verbesina alternifolia, commonly known as Wingstem, is a tall, native perennial wildflower found in moist woodlands, floodplains, and along streambanks throughout Illinois. It thrives in rich, moist to medium soils and prefers full sun to partial shade.

This plant grows 3 to 8 feet tall and is easily recognized by its winged stems and clusters of bright yellow, daisy-like flowers that bloom from late summer to early fall. It is an excellent nectar source for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, while its seeds provide food for birds in the fall and winter.

For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Verbesina alternifolia is a great choice for naturalized gardens, rain gardens, and pollinator habitats. Its tall, upright form makes it a striking addition to meadows and woodland edges, pairing well with other late-season bloomers like Goldenrod, Joe-Pye Weed, and Ironweed.

Bloom: late summer to early fall

Habitats: abandoned fields; areas adjacent to woodland paths; floodplain forests; moist meadows near rivers and woodlands; moist prairies; partially shaded areas along rivers; partially shaded seeps; roadside ditches; savannas; thickets; woodland borders; woodland openings

Lifespan: perennial

Moisture: moist to mesic

Plant type (height): forb (3 to 8 feet)

Requirements: full sun to light shade

Soil: fertile soil that is high in organic matter