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Joe Pye Weed

Eupatorium maculatum, better known as Joe Pye weed, was in full bloom when we were in North Carolina last month.  The huge blossoms are on sturdy stalks that can reach up to six foot tall.  It only grows in the eastern United States, and I haven't seen any growing wild here in Northwest Alabama.


The wildflower reportedly has many medicinal uses. It got its common name from a New England Indian healer named Joe Pye who lived at the same time as the Pilgrims.   Folklore says that Joe Pye cured typhus fever from a decoction of the plant.

I don't know if this plant has true medicinal properties, but I think it must have some sweet nectar.  Everywhere you find the plant, you will find some bumblebees and butterflies.






Is it not inherently wrong to call a plant like this a 'common wildflower'?

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things. Philippians 4:8

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