Spotted Joe Pye Weed, perennial, inhabits wet soils of marshes, swamps, ditches and wet meadows. Found widespread through much of the United States, it prefers to grow in moist, fertile soils with full sun to shade where it can reach heights of 7 feet.  The name comes from the purple spots that are present on the stems. The large bright inflorescences are in bloom from July-September and are an important nectar producer for migrating butterflies and other insects.