Physostegia

Description

Physostegia or the Obedient plant is a flowering perennial native to North America. It is known for its distinctive pink, lavender, or white flowers that bloom in late summer and fall. The plant gets its name from the way its stems can be bent and positioned like obedient soldiers.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Physostegia plant grows to be about 2-4 feet tall and spreads about 1-2 feet wide. Its leaves are lance-shaped and grow up to 6 inches long. The flowers grow in dense spikes and are tubular in shape with two lips. The lower lip is larger and has a distinctive three-lobed shape while the upper lip is smaller and two-lobed. The flowers bloom in shades of pink, lavender, and white and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Care Guide

Physostegia is a relatively low-maintenance plant that thrives in full sun to partial shade. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and should be watered regularly, especially during periods of drought. Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer to encourage healthy growth. In terms of hardiness zones, Physostegia can survive in zones 3-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Physostegia is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can occasionally fall victim to spider mites, leafhoppers, and powdery mildew. To prevent these issues, ensure that the plant is not overcrowded and has good air circulation. If pests or diseases do occur, treat them with an appropriate insecticide or fungicide.

Habitat

Physostegia is native to North America and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including meadows, prairies, and woodland edges. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of conditions, making it a great choice for gardens and landscapes.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Physostegia be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Physostegia can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.

Q: Is Physostegia a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, Physostegia’s tubular flowers are a favorite of bees and butterflies.

Q: Does Physostegia require pruning?
A: Physostegia does not require pruning, but it can benefit from deadheading to encourage more blooms.

Q: How often should Physostegia be fertilized?
A: Physostegia should be fertilized once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.

Related Plants

• Mint
• Basil
• Oregano
• Thyme

References

• “Physostegia virginiana.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281544.
• “Obedient Plant.” University of Illinois Extension, 2019, web.extension.illinois.edu/hortanswers/plantdetail.cfm?PlantID=769.
• “Physostegia virginiana.” North Carolina State University, plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/physostegia-virginiana/.