Bartlettina sordida, commonly referred to as Purple Torch, Mist Flower, or Blue Mist Flower, is a dense evergreen shrub characterised by its large, veined, ovate leaves. In spring, it produces stunning clusters of lilac flower heads atop purple-red stems that resemble fluffy floating pom poms.
The flowers emit a delightful lilac and honey scent, making them particularly attractive to wildlife, including both butterflies and bees. Formerly known as Eupatorium megalophyllum, this species has recently been reclassified as Bartlettina sordida.
Landscape uses
This plant makes a bold statement in garden beds and borders. Its large, dense form requires ample space to truly shine, though it can also thrive beneath trees. We recently planted Bartlettina sordida in the centre of a garden bed, and they look absolutely stunning at this time of year. Additionally, it can be used as a striking focal point or in mixed plantings, adding vibrant colour and attracting wildlife to the landscape.
How to plant
Bartlettina sordida thrives in light, dappled shade, protected from the harsh afternoon sun. The ideal soil is moist yet well-drained, enriched with plenty of organic matter. To retain moisture, be sure to apply a good layer of mulch. This robust shrub can grow to approximately 3 metres in height and 2.5 metres in width.
Care and maintenance
We recommend pruning Bartlettina sordida to promote compact growth by about a third after flowering. This plant is frost-sensitive, so it’s best to avoid planting it in regions prone to frost. During its active flowering periods in spring and summer, you can apply a slow-release fertiliser to support healthy growth.
Bartlettina sordida is a favourite among our team at Ian Barker Gardens; shade-friendly plants can be tricky to come by, so it’s celebrated for its versatility across a range of projects.
Looking to do some maintenance in your garden ahead of Summer? Check out our top Spring gardening tips here.
