Ironweed, New York IronweedNew York Ironweed is a coarse upright herbaceous perennial with serrated light green lance like leaves and thick central stem. Tiny fluffy purple flowers create terminal clusters at the top of the stem from late summer to fall, and fade to rust before giving way to rust colored seed clusters. Grows best in full sun and rich, moist, slightly acidic soils. Type: Perennial Origins: Eastern US; GA Native Height: 4' 6' Spread: 3 4' Spacing: 3' USDA