Tall White Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum), also known as Thoroughwort, is a native perennial herb known for its medicinal properties and striking white flowers. Native to North America, this herb grows in moist meadows, woodlands, and along riverbanks. It is best recognized for its upright stems and clusters of small white flowers that bloom in late summer to early fall. Historically, Tall White Boneset has been used in herbal medicine for its anti-inflammatory and fever-reducing properties. Beyond its medicinal uses, it is also a great addition to any garden, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies, and adding a touch of natural beauty with its delicate white flowers. Tall White Boneset thrives in moist soils and is a fantastic choice for gardeners looking to cultivate native plants or those interested in traditional herbal gardening.

Key Features:

• Medicinal Uses: Traditionally used for treating fevers, colds, and flu, Tall White Boneset is valued for its anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and fever-reducing properties.
• Pollinator-Friendly: The clusters of white flowers are highly attractive to pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, making it a great addition to pollinator gardens.
• Native Plant: As a native species, Tall White Boneset is well-suited for local climates and can support native wildlife, providing habitat and food for various insects and animals.
• Striking Flowers: The tall stems topped with dense clusters of tiny white flowers create a dramatic visual effect, making it an eye-catching addition to garden beds and wildflower meadows.
• Low Maintenance: Once established, Tall White Boneset is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in wet or moist soils, making it ideal for gardeners who want a hardy and resilient plant.

Growing Information:

• Light: Tall White Boneset prefers full sun to partial shade. It will thrive with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day but can tolerate some shade, especially in hotter climates.
• Soil: It thrives in moist, well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.5). It is particularly well-suited for moist environments like wetlands, stream banks, or rain gardens. Good drainage is important to prevent root rot.
• Planting Tips:
  • Directly sow Tall White Boneset seeds outdoors in early spring after the last frost, or start indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost.
  • Scatter the seeds lightly on the soil surface and gently press them in. Do not cover with soil as they need light to germinate.
  • Space plants 18-24 inches apart to allow them to grow tall and maintain good airflow.
  • Tall White Boneset grows to a height of 3-5 feet, making it a striking background or mid-border plant.
• Watering: This plant prefers consistently moist soil. Water regularly, particularly during dry periods, to keep the soil consistently damp. Tall White Boneset can tolerate wet soil but must have good drainage to avoid waterlogging.
• Maintenance: Once established, Tall White Boneset is relatively low maintenance. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage additional blooms, and prune back the plant in late fall to tidy up the garden. This perennial will return year after year if properly cared for.

Benefits:

• Culinary and Medicinal Uses: Tall White Boneset has a long history of use in traditional medicine. It has been used to relieve symptoms of colds, flu, and respiratory conditions due to its fever-reducing and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Pollinator Attraction: The fragrant white flowers are rich in nectar and attract a wide variety of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Planting it helps support the health of local ecosystems.
• Aesthetic Appeal: With its tall stems and clusters of small white flowers, Tall White Boneset adds an elegant touch to any garden. It creates a dramatic display when planted in groups or as part of a wildflower meadow.
• Resilient and Easy to Grow: Once established, this native herb requires minimal care, making it an excellent choice for gardeners who prefer low-maintenance plants.
• Wildlife Habitat: As a native plant, Tall White Boneset supports local wildlife and contributes to a healthy garden ecosystem by providing shelter and food for pollinators and other beneficial insects.

Growing Zones:

• Tall White Boneset is well-suited for USDA Zones 3-9. It is a hardy perennial that will survive through various seasons, returning each year to offer its benefits and beauty.

How to Use in the Garden:

• Pollinator Gardens: Add Tall White Boneset to your pollinator garden to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. The dense flower clusters provide ample nectar for pollinators during late summer and fall.
• Wildflower Meadows: This herb is a perfect addition to wildflower meadows or naturalistic garden designs. It helps to recreate the beauty of native ecosystems and supports biodiversity.
• Rain Gardens: Tall White Boneset thrives in moist soil, making it an excellent choice for rain gardens or areas with poor drainage.
• Back-of-the-Border Plant: With its height and striking flowers, Tall White Boneset works well at the back of garden borders, providing a beautiful backdrop to shorter plants and contributing vertical interest to the garden.

Conclusion: Tall White Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum) is a beautiful and versatile herb that offers a range of benefits for gardeners and herbalists alike. With its striking white flowers, medicinal properties, and ability to attract pollinators, it is a valuable addition to any garden. Whether you are looking to grow a low-maintenance native plant, create a pollinator-friendly space, or cultivate a plant with historical medicinal uses, Tall White Boneset is a great choice. With 200 seeds in this packet, you’ll have plenty of plants to enjoy its beauty and benefits in your garden. Add Tall White Boneset to your garden today and experience the many advantages this hardy, medicinal herb has to offer.