Planting and Growing the Common Boneset

Common Boneset, or Eupatorium perfoliatum, is from the aster family of plants. It is a native plant to the United States. Boneset was once an herbal remedy, but today it is a nice addition to a native garden.

Common Boneset Description

This perennial grows three to six feet high with white flowers and basal leaves. Flowers are small, dull in color, and in clusters that are flat topped. The plant is hairy and leaves are paired on the erect stems. Bloom season is between June and October.

Growing Guide

Common boneset will grow in any lighting condition with a moist or wet soil. Propagate by seeds or by division. Dividing clumps should be done in the spring or fall and seeds should be done in the fall. Germination can be low, so plant many seeds at once.

Distribution

This native is found in the states of Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, North Dakota, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Vermont, Wisconsin, and West Virginia. It is seen in damp prairies and bogs.

Herbal Remedy

Boneset leaves were dried and then made into a tonic called boneset tea. This tea was thought to treat coughs, colds, and constipation. Early herbalists thought this plant was good when setting bones, hence the name 'boneset'. When using it for this purpose, the boneset's leaves were wrapped with the bandages.

Source: NPIN