Tall thoroughwort (Eupatorium altissimum, Sp. Pl.: 837 (1753))

Family: Asteraceae

Author: L.

Bibliography: Sp. Pl.: 837 (1753)

Year: 1753

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Eupatorium

Vegetable: Unknown

Observations: SE. Canada to U.S.A.

Description

Tall thoroughwort, scientifically known as Eupatorium altissimum, is a notable species within the diverse Asteraceae family. This perennial plant was first described and classified by the renowned botanist Carl Linnaeus in his work “Species Plantarum” in 1753.

The tall thoroughwort, sometimes simply called thoroughwort, enjoys a native habitat that stretches from the southeastern regions of Canada down through the United States. It thrives in a variety of environments, often found in meadows, prairies, and open woodland areas where it can receive ample sunlight.

Eupatorium altissimum is characterized by its impressive stature, often reaching considerable heights that make it stand out among other flora. The plant features flat-topped clusters of small, white flowers that bloom in late summer to early fall. These blooms are not only visually appealing but also play a vital role in local ecosystems by attracting a range of pollinators, including bees and butterflies.

In addition to its ecological contributions, the tall thoroughwort has been historically noted for its herbal properties. Various parts of the plant have been employed in traditional medicine practices by indigenous peoples and early settlers. However, as with many plants with ethnobotanical uses, modern users should exercise caution and consult expert sources due to the potential for toxic effects.

Overall, the tall thoroughwort is a plant of both beauty and utility, contributing to the rich tapestry of North America’s native plant life. Its robust nature and the delicate appeal of its flowers make it a fascinating subject for botanists, ecologists, and gardeners alike.

Common Names

Eng: tall thoroughwort, tall boneset, upland boneset
Fra: eupatoire élevée
En: Tall thoroughwort, Tall boneset, Upland boneset
Fr: Eupatoire élevée

Synonyms

• Eupatorium rupestre (Raf.)
• Eupatorium elatum (Salisb.)
• Uncasia altissima (Greene)
• Eupatorium saltuense (Fernald)
• Eupatorium ramosum (Mill.)
• Eupatorium floridanum (Raf. ex Torr. & A.Gray)

Distribution

• Alabama (native)
• Arkansas (native)
• Connecticut (native)
• Florida (native)
• Georgia (native)
• Illinois (native)
• Indiana (native)
• Iowa (native)
• Kansas (native)
• Kentucky (native)
• Louisiana (native)
• Maryland (native)
• Masachusettes (native)
• Michigan (native)
• Minnesota (native)
• Mississippi (native)
• Missouri (native)
• Nebraska (native)
• New Jersey (native)
• New York (native)
• North Carolina (native)
• Ohio (native)
• Oklahoma (native)
• Ontario (native)
• Pennsylvania (native)
• South Carolina (native)
• Tennessee (native)
• Texas (native)
• Virginia (native)
• West Virginia (native)
• Wisconsin (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Sep 5, 2019 by S H (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 5, 2019 by S H (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 28, 2021 by Dan Knudten (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 28, 2021 by charlie draheim (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 5, 2019 by S H (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Sep 18, 2005 by EOL − Darel Hess (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Sep 20, 2010 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Sep 5, 2019 by S H (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 23, 2022 by Anthony Burns (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 13, 2021 by Feya Sterling (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Sep 18, 2005 by EOL − Darel Hess (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Aug 15, 2014 by EOL − Daniel Carter (cc-by-nc)

Taken Sep 7, 2015 by EOL − leptodia (cc-by-nc)

Taken Aug 31, 2015 by EOL − Marlo Perdicas (cc-by)

Taken Sep 1, 2015 by EOL − Robert L Curtis (cc-by-nc-sa)

Bark

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − John Hilty (cc-by-nc)

Other

Taken Sep 20, 2010 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5400563)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:99471-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Eupatorium altissimum L.)

Specifications

Growth