White Joe-Pye Weed Eupatorium fistulosum f. albidum 'Bartered Bride'
ABOUT
The plant known as 'Bartered Bride' is a variant of Joe Pye Weed, characterized by its striking appearance. It has an upright habit with sturdy stems that hold aloft clusters of small, fluffy-looking flowers. These flowers are typically a pure white color, presenting a cloud-like display when the plant is in full bloom. The flower heads are quite large and dense, providing a visual spectacle that can be quite captivating. The leaves of 'Bartered Bride' are elongated, with a lance-shaped look and a pointed tip. They arrange themselves in whorls around the stem, providing a lush backdrop for the flowers. Each leaf is a rich green, which contrasts well with the white blooms, enhancing their visual impact. As a whole, the plant has a bushy, full appearance due to the volume of leaves and the profusion of flower heads. When in bloom, 'Bartered Bride' Joe Pye Weed becomes a focal point in the garden due to its floriferous nature and the elegance of its white flowers. With its pleasing aesthetic, it often attracts butterflies and other pollinators, adding an element of movement and life to its surrounding space.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
White Joe-Pye Weed, Hollow Joe-Pye Weed, Bartered Bride.
Common names
Eupatorium fistulosum f. albidum 'Bartered Bride'.
ToxicityTo humans
The most common common name for Eupatorium fistulosum is Joe-Pye weed. The toxicity to humans is generally considered low, and it is not commonly known as a hazardous plant to ingest. However, all plants have the potential to cause reactions in certain individuals. If parts of the plant are ingested, some people may experience gastrointestinal upset or allergic reactions. These symptoms could include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and skin irritation. It is always advisable to consult with a medical professional if any part of the plant is ingested and symptoms develop.
To pets
Joe-Pye weed, the most common common name for Eupatorium fistulosum, is not typically listed as a toxic plant to pets. However, as with any non-food plant, ingestion can potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset in some animals. If a pet ingests part of this plant, they may exhibit symptoms such as drooling, vomiting, or diarrhea. If you notice these symptoms or suspect your pet has ingested any part of the plant, it is important to contact a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
5-6 feet (1.5-1.8 meters)
Spread
2-4 feet (0.6-1.2 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Eupatorium fistulosum f. albidum 'Bartered Bride' provides nectar and pollen for bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects.
- Wildlife Habitat: The plant offers shelter and food resources for various wildlife, particularly caterpillars of certain moth and butterfly species.
- Ornamental Value: With its attractive white flowers, this variety of Joe Pye Weed adds aesthetic appeal to gardens and landscapes.
- Low Maintenance: It is generally easy to care for, requiring minimal upkeep once established.
- Drought Resistance: Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant, making it suitable for xeriscaping or gardens in drier climates.
- Rain Garden Suitability: It can thrive in wet conditions, making it an excellent choice for rain gardens or areas with poor drainage.
- Tall Stature: Its tall growth habit can provide vertical interest in a garden design, as well as privacy or screening.
- Adaptability: It adapts to a range of soil types, although it prefers moist, fertile ground.
- Seasonal Interest: It blooms in late summer to early fall, offering visual interest during a time when many other plants are starting to decline.
- Erosion Control: Its robust root system can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion, especially in wetter areas.
- Native Plant Advantages: Being native to certain regions, it supports the local ecosystem and generally requires less care than non-native species.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Eupatorium fistulosum, commonly known as Joe-Pye weed, can be used as a natural fabric dye, providing shades of brown or red, depending on the mordant used.
- The sturdy stems of Joe-Pye weed can be used in basket weaving or as natural stakes for supporting other plants in the garden.
- This plant's large leaves can be used as a natural mulching material to suppress weeds and retain soil moisture around other plants.
- The plentiful nectar of Joe-Pye weed makes it a valuable plant for beekeepers, as it supports honey production in the late summer when other sources may be scarce.
- Joe-Pye weed can be planted to help control soil erosion due to its robust root system that stabilizes soil on slopes and riverbanks.
- The dried flower heads of Joe-Pye weed can be used in floral arrangements or as part of a natural potpourri.
- Incorporating Joe-Pye weed into rain gardens can help in water management, as the plant is tolerant of wet conditions and can absorb excess runoff.
- Joe-Pye weed is beneficial for butterfly gardens, as it attracts a wide range of butterfly species for nectar and as a host plant for their larvae.
- The seed heads of Joe-Pye weed can be collected and used to provide texture and interest in winter gardens when most other plants have died back.
- Planting Joe-Pye weed can contribute to biodiversity by providing habitat and food for various insects and birds within an ecosystem.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Joe Pye weed is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Joe Pye weed is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Healing: Eupatorium, commonly known as Joe Pye Weed, is associated with healing due to its historical medicinal uses by Native Americans.
- Resilience: Joe Pye Weed is known for its ability to thrive in a variety of conditions, symbolizing resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges.
- Attraction: As a plant that draws butterflies, Joe Pye Weed represents attraction and the ability to draw in positivity and good company.
WaterThe Joe Pye Weed 'Bartered Bride' prefers consistent moisture and should be watered thoroughly. It typically requires watering once a week, but this may vary based on climate and soil conditions. During hot or dry periods, it may need water twice a week. It's best to check the top inch of soil; if it feels dry, water the plant. Provide about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water per week to maintain soil moisture.
LightJoe Pye Weed 'Bartered Bride' thrives best in full sunlight to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but for optimal growth and blooming, a spot that receives at least six hours of sunlight a day is ideal. Avoid placing it in deep shade, as this can result in fewer blooms and weaker stems.
TemperatureJoe Pye Weed 'Bartered Bride' grows best in temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. This plant can survive minimum temperatures down to about -30 degrees Fahrenheit and maximum temperatures up to about 100 degrees Fahrenheit. However, prolonged exposure to extremes can stress the plant.
PruningJoe Pye Weed 'Bartered Bride' should be pruned to remove spent flowers and encourage a second blooming. Additionally, pruning in late winter or early spring, by cutting back the stems to about 1-2 feet from the ground, will help maintain plant shape and promote vigorous growth. It is not typically necessary to prune more than once a year.
CleaningAs needed
SoilJoe Pye Weed thrives in rich, moist, well-draining loam with a pH of 5.5 to 6.8. A soil mix of garden soil, compost, and a small amount of sand or perlite for drainage creates an ideal environment for this plant.
RepottingJoe Pye Weed typically does not require frequent repotting as it is most often grown as a perennial in outdoor gardens. Repotting every 3 to 4 years or when it outgrows its current space is sufficient.
Humidity & MistingJoe Pye Weed prefers moderate to high humidity levels but is adaptable to average outdoor humidity conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and keep soil moist.
Outdoor
Plant in sun to part shade and keep soil consistently moist.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleEupatorium fistulosum f. albidum 'Bartered Bride', more commonly known as white Joe Pye weed, begins its life cycle as a seed, which requires stratification to germinate, a process that often occurs naturally through the winter. Upon germinating in spring, it develops a root system and foliage as a perennial plant, growing rapidly and preferring moist conditions with full to partial sunlight. By mid to late summer, it starts to flourish, producing tall stems topped with large, dome-shaped clusters of white flowers that attract a wide variety of pollinators, especially butterflies. After the blooming period, the plant sets seeds, which are then dispersed by wind or wildlife to propagate the next generation. In the fall, the plant's above-ground growth dies back after frost hits, though the root system remains alive underground. The following spring, the plant regrows from these roots, completing its cycle and starting anew.
PropogationPropogation time
Late Summer to Autumn
Eupatorium fistulosum f. albidum 'Bartered Bride', commonly known as Joe-Pye Weed, is typically propagated by division, which is the most popular method for this plant. This process is best done in the spring, just as the plant starts to show new growth. To propagate by division, a gardener would carefully dig up an established clump, ensuring not to damage the root system excessively. Using a sharp spade or knife, the clump is then divided into smaller sections, each with a portion of roots and shoots. These divisions should be immediately planted in the garden at the same soil depth from which they were taken, watered thoroughly, using about a gallon (approximately 3.8 liters) of water for each new plant, and the soil around them should be firmed to remove air pockets.
