Quick answer: Western ironweed (Vernonia baldwinii) is native to 1 state. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. No live listing of the true species was found as of 16 Sep 2026.
Photo: Patricia DuBose Duncan, Wikimedia Commons (PD)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Full sun |
|---|---|
| Water | Low |
| Soil | Rocky/sandy, tolerates clay/loam/limestone-based |
| Bloom | Jul-Nov |
| Height | Up to 5 ft |
| Wildlife value | Attracts butterflies/birds, special value to native bees |
Highly aggressive rhizome colonizer; "rampant" in garden soils, best for natural areas
Buying it
No live listing of the true wild species was found as of 16 Sep 2026 — that means our last search didn't surface one, not that the plant is unavailable.
No live seed or plant listing found as of 16 Sep 2026. That means our last search didn't surface one — not that the plant is unavailable. Try a regional native-plant nursery.
Quick answers about Western ironweed
Where is Western ironweed native?
Western ironweed (Vernonia baldwinii) is native to Oklahoma. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Western ironweed bloom?
Western ironweed blooms Jul-Nov. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Western ironweed need?
Light: Full sun. Water: Low. Soil: Rocky/sandy, tolerates clay/loam/limestone-based. Mature height: Up to 5 ft.
Is Western ironweed good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Attracts butterflies/birds, special value to native bees.
Is Western ironweed deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
Western ironweed is deer-resistant and drought-tolerant.
Where can I buy Western ironweed?
We haven't found an online listing of the true wild species as of 16 Sep 2026. A regional native-plant nursery or native seed company is your best source; ask for Vernonia baldwinii by its scientific name.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Western ironweed.
- Pincushion daisy (perfumeballs) Gaillardia suavis
- Scarlet sage Salvia coccinea
- Stiff greenthread Thelesperma filifolium
- Rough coneflower Rudbeckia grandiflora
- Texas bluebonnet (state flower) Lupinus texensis
- Lemon beebalm Monarda citriodora
Also listed under
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