Late Boneset (Eupatorium serotinum) vs. Tall Thoroughwort (Eupatorium altissimum)

These similar plants have a wide range of overlap and often occur together in open, disturbed ground. They are easily told apart by a close look at their leaves, flowers, or seedheads. Their names are misleading in that late boneset can sometimes grow taller, and their bloom times are similar. Eupatorium serotinum ranges into wetter habitats, and ranges farther south, whereas Eupatorium altissimum ranges into drier habitats, especially on calcareous soils, and ranges farther northwest. Overlap is greater in anthropogenic habitats than in natural areas. These two species can hybridize, so it may not be possible to identify all individuals.

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