Vernonia wollastonii Plant Care

Vernonia wollastonii (Vernonia wollastonii) belongs to the Asteraceae family within the Vernonia genus. Vernonia wollastonii is native to eastern and southeastern Africa, ranging from Sudan and Ethiopia to the Northern Provinces and KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa.

Vernonia wollastonii displays an upright, bushy perennial growth habit, reaching up to 3 ft tall with a spread of approximately 2 ft. Vernonia wollastonii produces small purple composite flowers in clusters.

Leaf size: approximately 6 inches.

Vernonia wollastonii requires watering every 7–10 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.

Vernonia wollastonii thrives in full sun to partial shade.

Vernonia wollastonii grows best at temperatures of 60–80°F. Vernonia wollastonii prefers humidity levels of 40–70%.

Well-draining loamy soil with added compost for nutrients. Good drainage is essential for Vernonia wollastonii to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Vernonia wollastonii every 6 months during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer diluted to the strength on the label.

Pause feeding in autumn and winter, when growth slows, and never fertilize dry soil — water first.

The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.

Repot every 2-3 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

Vernonia wollastonii can be propagated through seeds, division of root ball. Similar propagation techniques also apply to narrowleaf ironweed plant care, which shares the same genus.

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Vernonia wollastonii is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, whiteflies. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.

Vernonia wollastonii grows outdoors in USDA Zone 9b – 11b. It survives winters down to planting zone 9b. Vernonia wollastonii is native to eastern and southeastern Africa, ranging from Sudan and Ethiopia to the Northern Provinces and KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa. In cooler regions, grow Vernonia wollastonii as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.