Ironweed (Vernonia gigantea) | Triple 5 Plant Codex

# Ironweed (Vernonia gigantea) | Triple 5 Plant Codex ## Identification Block - **Accepted Scientific Name:** *Vernonia gigantea* - **Family:** Asteraceae - **Common Names:** Ironweed - **Scope Statement:** This page covers *Vernonia gigantea* in the context of the Triple 5 Plant Codex for riparian, wild, and woody forage management in TN/KY. ## Required Page Structure ### 1. Overview Ironweed is a native species relevant to wild forage and riparian systems in the Mid-South. It is classified under the Asteraceae family and is commonly identified in wild, native contexts. ### 6. Toxicity and Animal Interaction - **Toxicity Level:** Low - **Species Affected:** livestock - **Exposure Scenarios:** Risks associated with low toxicity level, especially for livestock. ### 11. Homestead Decision Guidance **Monitor.** Decision based on low toxicity and non-invasive status. ### 12. Source Reference Appendix - [USDA PLANTS Profile](https://plants.usda.gov/home/search?query=Vernonia%20gigantea) - [UT Extension - Riparian Management](https://utextension.tennessee.edu/) - [UK Extension - Forage Resources](https://forages.ca.uky.edu/) ## Structured Data - **Title:** Ironweed (Vernonia gigantea) | Triple 5 Plant Codex - **Slug:** ironweed - **Common Name:** Ironweed - **Scientific Name:** Vernonia gigantea - **Family:** Asteraceae - **Categories:** wild, native - **Toxicity Level:** low - **Animals Affected:** livestock - **Invasive Status:** non-invasive - **Native Status:** native