New York ironweed is a tall perennial, adorned with small reddish-purple flowers that bloom in large clusters from late summer into autumn. The source of its name has been attributed to certain "iron-like" plant qualities including tough stems, the rust-tinged color of its fading flowers, and the rust-colored seeds. The flowers attract butterflies and seed heads attract birds.
Native Americans historically made a tea from the plant to treat medical conditions including childbirth pain, stomach ulcers, and loose teeth.