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.
Habitat
Moist prairies, floodplain meadows, and stream banks in the central Midwest
Diet
Nectar for monarchs, swallowtails, skippers, and native bees
How common
Common
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