white snakeroot
Ageratina altissima
Overview
White snakeroot (Ageratina altissima) is an amazing native wildflower species. It is known for its vigorous growth, and its thick cluster of tiny snowy-white floral heads. The mat forming herbaceous perennial stays evergreen, and can tolerate a variety of soil conditions and light levels. The flowers are visited by a variety of pollinators, and when the flowers are done, they are replaced by showy seed heads. The white snakeroot has a long history of medicinal use, and the root of the plant is said to have powerful healing properties. But moreover, its beauty and graceful structure make it an amazing addition to any garden.
Care Guide
Watering
Water should be applied once every 5-7 days, depending on the weather. Water deeply to ensure the entire root system is getting moisture. In hot and humid conditions, water every 3-4 days. In dry and arid conditions, water more often and increase the amount of water with each application. Soil should be kept moist but not soggy. Overwatering can be just as damaging as not enough so make sure the soil is allowed to dry out a bit between waterings.
Light
White snakeroot thrives in full sunlight and grows best in partially-shaded areas. For optimum growth, white snakeroot should receive 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight every day.
Temperature
Hardiness zone 3-8.
Pruning
White snakeroot should be pruned back to the ground in late winter to early spring. Pruning will create an overall pleasing shape, safeguard against diseases, and encourage new blooms. When pruning, use sharp anvil pruners to avoid crushing stems, and remove all dead and diseased branches. Remove any shoots that are growing too close to the center of the plant to promote air circulation. Make all cuts near a leaf node or bud, and never leave a stub. Finally, be sure not to remove more than 1/3 of the plant’s overall structure when pruning.
Propagation
Division, Cutting, Seed Propagation, Layering Propagation, Stolon
Uses & Symbolism
Attracts: Butterflies.
Related plants
Other plants you might like if you grow white snakeroot.
