Plant of the Week: Boneset

Eupatorium perfoliatum, commonly known as boneset, is an herbaceous perennial forb. Native to Eastern United States and Canada, it’s widespread from Novia Scotia all the way to Florida. This plant can vary from 3-5 feet tall with upright flowering heads that bloom in fall.

Boneset thrives in wet areas like wet meadows and stream banks and prefers full to partial sun and moist soils. The clusters of white flowers are structured so that the nectar is easily accessible, luring in a wide range of pollinators. Check out this impressive list of insect visitors at the Illinois Wildflowers Database. Besides nectar and pollen, boneset foliage provides food for a number of moth caterpillars including the lined ruby tiger moth, three-lined flower moth, and blackberry looper moth.

Boneset has many interesting uses. It has a history of traditional use in treating various ailments, particularly those associated with colds, fevers, and aches. Boneset also helps to clear nasal systems by loosening mucus and clearing airways. It also can clear digestion by stimulating enzymes and was once used by native Americans and early European settlers for malaria and other infections and diseases.  One thing it doesn’t do—set bones!  So please don’t try to use this plant to heal a broken appendage. Stay well!

-City of Madison Conservation Crew