Eutrochium maculatum (Joe-pye Weed) Seed

Eutrochium maculatum, commonly known as spotted Joe Pye weed, is a North American perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is a tall plant, growing up to 10 feet in height, with strong, sturdy stems that are covered in purple spots. The leaves are arranged in whorls along the stem, with each leaf being long and narrow.

In late summer and early fall, Eutrochium maculatum produces large clusters of pink or mauve flowers at the tops of the stems. The flowers are attractive to a variety of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, and provide an important source of nectar for them.

Spotted Joe Pye weed is a wetland plant that thrives in moist to wet soils, although it can also grow in drier conditions. It is commonly found in wetlands, meadows, and along stream banks throughout much of eastern North America.

In addition to its ecological benefits as a pollinator plant and its use in wetland restoration for water filtration, Eutrochium maculatum has a variety of traditional medicinal uses. The plant has been used by Indigenous peoples for its antipyretic (fever-reducing) properties, and in modern times it has been studied for its potential as a treatment for conditions such as rheumatism and urinary tract infections. It is also a popular ornamental plant in gardens, valued for its tall, showy flowers and ability to attract pollinators.