Frostweed (Verbesina virginica) is a perennial wildflower in the Aster family whose native habitat includes the moist edges of forests and stream banks from Pennsylvania west to central Texas and south to Florida. With clusters of showy, 3-6 inch white disc flowers that branch off a winged stem, this plant can easily grow to 4-6 feet and typically blooms from August through first frost when its stem splits as its sap and water seep out and freeze into curled icy ribbons. The plant then becomes an interesting garden focal point until temperatures rise and the ice sculpture melts. An important nectar source for native bees and butterflies (including Monarchs, Pipevine Swallowtails, and Great Purple Hairstreaks), frostweed also supports Spring Azure and Silvery Checkerspot caterpillars further to our north. Frostweed is a great transitional plant between fully manicured garden areas and more natural wildflower plantings. Plant it with Spanish needles (Bidens alba) for an all-white long-lasting feast for pollinators or interject pops of purple with blazing stars (Liatris spp.) for a fall bounty for bees and butterflies. Frostweed can tolerate a range of sun and moisture conditions: full sun and drier conditions promote a more compact form and more blooms. Pruning by 1/3 in May or June will also promote a fuller plant.
/djs