joe-pye weed

[ joh-pahy ]

noun

1. Also called purple boneset. a tall composite weed, Eupatorium purpureum, of North America, having clusters of pinkish or purple flowers.
2. Also called spotted joe-pye weed. a related plant, E. maculatum, having similar flowers and stems that are often spotted with purple.

joe-pye weed

/ ˈdʒəʊˈpaɪ /

noun

1. any of several North American plants of the genus Eupatorium, esp E. purpureum, having pale purplish clusters of flower heads lacking rays: family Asteraceae (composites)

Word History and Origins

Origin of joe-pye weed¹

An Americanism dating back to 1810–20; origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of joe-pye weed¹

C19: of unknown origin

Example Sentences

Look at the seeds of the boneset, joe-pye-weed, milkweed, and goldenrod!

From Project Gutenberg

If I want a clump of something tall, Joe-pye-weed is not to be disdained.

From Project Gutenberg

"Ah, Joe-Pye-Weed has arrived," she exclaimed joyfully over the handsome blossom.

From Project Gutenberg