New York Ironweed [Vernonia noveboracensis] found at Fletcher Park on 22 August 2013. It’s a member of the Aster (Asteraceae) family and Newcomb’s Wildflower Guide, pages 210-211, states it blooms in summer and fall in moist meadows. Wildflowers of the Carolinas, pages 182-183, states:
“Iron” refers to the rust-colored dried flower heads and reddish seeds, which resemble the color of rusted iron. Cherokee Indians used ironweed root to make a tea to relieve menstrual cramps.
Rebecca Burgess’ book Havesting Color, says the purple flowers will produce dyes of “soft green tones” and the plant will yield “a range of soft, luminous yellows.”
USDA Plants Listing: Vernonia noveboracensis
New York Ironweed at Fletcher Park- 22 August 2013
New York Ironweed (side) – 22 August 2013
New York Ironweed – 1 September 2014
