Common Ironweed is a tall, striking native wildflower of moist prairies and floodplain meadows, producing vivid royal-purple flower clusters in late summer. Its intense color makes it one of the most visually dramatic wildflowers of the Midwest. Many butterfly species, including monarchs and swallowtails, avidly visit its nectar-rich flowers.
Best time to see a Common Ironweed
The best time to see a Common Ironweed is July–August, when about 85% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 1,449 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Common Ironweed? What plant is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Common Ironweed sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
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