08/23/2026
This week’s Fortune’s Cove Blooms & Apothecary fabulous foraging adventure - **d (in the genus Eutrochium) is, in fact, not a w**d, but a native perennial that brings lavender-like blooms and irresistible appeal to butterflies and bees. Joe Pye w**d likes moist/wet soil initially but thrives in any soil in growth and a full sun location. It can grow from 2 to 7 feet tall in all regions, from embankments, floodplains and fields during the months of mid-July through September. The plant’s name comes from a Native American sachem (leader) named Joseph Shauquethqueat, that historically spoke an Algonquian language. Traditionally, this plant was used as a medicinal herb to cure various ailments.
The leaves, roots and flowers have been used in traditional medicine preparations. Joe Pye w**d is known to contain flavonoids and euparin, which are natural compounds that combat free radicals. Tea made from the roots, leaves, and flowers has been utilized for its diuretic properties and in addressing various conditions like rheumatism, gout, fevers, diarrhea, respiratory issues, urinary tract support, gallstones, and kidney or bladder stones.
The leaves and flower blooms should be harvested during the summer before the flower buds begin to open. Dry the plant by hanging it upside-down in a dry place and store it for later use. Harvest the roots in the fall, chop and dry or dehydrate them for longer storage periods.
Joe Pye W**d Tea Recipe:
1 teaspoon dried Joe Pie flowers or leaves (one serving)
8 oz filtered boiling water
1 teaspoon honey (optional)
Honey or sugar (optional, for taste)
• Place dried Joe Pie W**d flowers or leaves in a teapot, infuser or large mug
• Add boiling water and steep the mix for 10 minutes.
• Strain the tea, add honey or your preferred sweetener.
Other uses for Joe Pye w**d from foraged: toss young leaves in salad, cook young leaves like vegetables,
Use flowers for decorative garnish on dishes or floral displays in home.
**d
Photography: Long Creations International, LLC
