This is our new selection of the fabulous native giant ironweed. V. altissima 'Purple Pillar' emerges from the ground in spring with reddish purple thick thumb-sized stalks that shoot rapidly upwards to 10' tall. In midsummer, the stalks are topped with large attractive clusters of clear purple flowers...very dramatic. V. altissima can tolerate growing in a bog or in the dry sunny back of the border...very versatile!