New England Justiceweed: A Rare Native Gem Worth Protecting
If you’re passionate about native plants and conservation, New England justiceweed (Eupatorium novaeangliae) might catch your attention—but this rare perennial requires some special consideration before you add it to your garden wishlist.
What Makes New England Justiceweed Special
New England justiceweed goes by a few different names, including simply justiceweed and New England boneset. This native perennial belongs to the diverse Eupatorium genus and grows as what botanists call a forb—essentially a non-woody flowering plant that comes back year after year.
As a true native to the United States, this species has evolved alongside local wildlife and ecosystems, making it a valuable addition to conservation-minded gardens when grown responsibly.
Where Does It Naturally Grow?
New England justiceweed has a very limited natural range, found only in Massachusetts and Rhode Island. This restricted distribution is part of what makes this plant so special—and so rare.
A Word of Caution: Rarity Matters
Here’s where things get important: New England justiceweed has a Global Conservation Status of S5T1, indicating it’s quite rare in the wild. If you’re interested in growing this native beauty, please only source it from reputable nurseries that propagate plants responsibly rather than collecting from wild populations.
Wild collection of rare plants can seriously harm already vulnerable populations, so always ask your supplier about their sourcing practices.
Growing Conditions and Care
Based on its wetland status as a Facultative Wetland plant in the Northeast region, New England justiceweed typically prefers moist conditions but can adapt to drier soils as well. This flexibility makes it potentially suitable for:
- Rain gardens and bioswales
- Pond or stream edges
- Low-lying areas that collect moisture
- Native plant gardens with supplemental watering
As a perennial forb, it will die back to the ground each winter and return the following spring, making it a low-maintenance choice once established.
Should You Grow New England Justiceweed?
The decision to grow this rare native comes with responsibility. If you:
- Live within its native range (Massachusetts or Rhode Island)
- Can source plants from responsible propagators
- Want to support native plant conservation
- Have suitable moist to moderately dry growing conditions
Then New England justiceweed could be a meaningful addition to your native plant collection. However, given its rarity, you might also consider growing more common native alternatives that provide similar ecological benefits without the conservation concerns.
Conservation Through Cultivation
Growing rare native plants like New England justiceweed in our gardens can actually support conservation efforts—but only when done thoughtfully. By purchasing from ethical sources and potentially saving seeds (where appropriate), gardeners can help maintain genetic diversity and reduce pressure on wild populations.
Remember, every rare native plant in cultivation is a small victory for biodiversity, as long as it doesn’t come at the expense of wild populations.
