Summer’s Surrender ironweed proved a perfect marriage of its two parents, Vernonia lettermannii and V. arkansana. It inherited the bushy habit of V. lettermannii and the more robust plant size, larger foliage, and larger capitula of V. arkansana. ‘Summer’s Surrender’ is no shrinking-violet perennial, as it matures into a robust yet uniform and dense broad mound, with mature plants growing as large as 48” tall and 83” wide. With excellent resistance to both powdery mildew and rust, the foliage remains clean and attractive all summer and fall. Dark purple florets are packed into nearly 1-inch-wide flower heads, which are borne in profusion on airy inflorescences from early September to early October in northern Illinois (USDA Zone 5). A diversity of butterflies, moths, and bees are attracted to the flowers. It has proven adaptable to both moist and drier soil. Use this selection in the back of larger perennial or mixed borders, near lake edges and other moist sites, in pollinator gardens, and in any situation that calls for a larger yet attractive and uniform perennial plant. Developed by Dr. Jim Ault at Chicago Botanic Garden. Hardy to USDA Zones 4 – 9.

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