Joe Pye Weed, Spotted joe pye weed

Eupatorium maculatum

Physical Characteristics

Eupatorium maculatum is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.5 m (5ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

South-eastern and Central N. America - Newfoundland to British Columbia to Washington and New York.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Antirheumatic Diaphoretic Diuretic Kidney A tea made from the whole herb is diuretic[222]. It is used in the treatment of kidney complaints, painful urination, rheumatism etc[61, 222]. The leaves and stems are harvested in the summer before the flower buds open, and are dried for later use[238]. A tea made from the roots is used in the treatment of fevers, colds, kidney and liver complaints, rheumatism etc[222, 257]. It is said to have a tonic effect upon pregnant women[257] and is also said to induce sweating[222]. Externally, a decoction of the roots is used as a wash on rheumatic joints[257]. The roots are harvested in the autumn and dried for later use[238].

Known Hazards

None known