Broad-leaved or Upland ironweed is a perennial plant that is native to the upland areas of the eastern US where it grows in areas that are consistently moist and bright. It bears bracts of one inch bright purple flowers in late summer to mid-fall providing a pop of tall color in the late season. Broad-leaved ironweed grows to a height of about six feet and a width of about five feet in sunny conditions, and slightly less in shadier spots.

It can become weedy, so care should be taken in siting it especially in smaller gardens. Since Vernonia glauca has a number of common names it is advisable to check the botanical name before purchasing. In an evaluation of ironweeds conducted at the Chicago Botanic Garden, broad-leaved ironweed received a good rating for growing in local conditions.