Is it the flowers or the rest of the plant and leaves that look like Joe Pye?

Stinking like cat pee....hmmm, that isn't making me think of anything except boxwood which doesn't look like Joe Pye at all! :)

Photos do help immensely! Please post them if you have them.

FataMorgana

The plant around here that blooms at the same time and has a superficial resemblance is Ironweed, Vernonia species. It doesn't have whorled leaves and the flowers are much darker purple, but otherwise the general look and habitat are similar. There are several different kinds.

FWIW, there are also more than one kind of Joe Pye Weed. Maybe you're just seeing a different species.

WW

Here is a link that might be useful: Vernonia angustifolia, Tall Ironweed