Joe-pye weed is a robust, stately perennial with fibrous roots and rhizomes. The stems are purple with leaves arranged in whorls around the stem. The large flower heads form a showy cluster of lightly scented pink flowers. The flowers are a favorite of many different bees and butterflies, including the rusty-patched bumblebee, an endangered species. It grows best in wet places but is tolerant of upland sites with moist soils. Joe-pye weed spreads out and can become aggressive in small gardens. It is best suited for larger areas.