Contents
Description
Physostegia Intermedia, commonly referred to as the intermediate obedient plant, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae. It is native to North America, specifically in the eastern and central regions of the United States and southern Canada.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Physostegia |
| Species | Physostegia Intermedia |
Appearance
Physostegia Intermedia can grow up to 3-4 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide. Its leaves are lance-shaped and medium green in color, growing up to 6 inches long and 1 inch wide. The flowers bloom from summer to early fall and are tubular in shape, arranged in spikes up to 8 inches long. The color of the flowers ranges from pink to lavender and white.
Care Guide
Physostegia Intermedia is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Plant in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate partial shade but will bloom more profusely in full sun.
- Hardiness Zones: Physostegia Intermedia is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Physostegia Intermedia is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can still be susceptible to some issues:
- Aphids: These small insects can feed on the leaves and flowers, causing stunted growth and distorted leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and browning of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves, stunting growth and causing leaf drop. Use a fungicide to treat.
Habitat
Physostegia Intermedia can be found in a variety of habitats, including wet meadows, marshes, and along streams and ponds. It prefers moist soils but can also tolerate drier conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Physostegia Intermedia a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, the tubular flowers of Physostegia Intermedia are attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Q: Can Physostegia Intermedia be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Physostegia Intermedia can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its root system.
Q: Does Physostegia Intermedia have any medicinal properties?
A: Physostegia Intermedia has not been extensively studied for its medicinal properties, but some Native American tribes have used it as a traditional remedy for digestive issues.
Q: Can Physostegia Intermedia be propagated by division?
A: Yes, Physostegia Intermedia can be propagated by division in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Physostegia virginiana (obedient plant)
- Physostegia correllii (Correll’s false dragonhead)
- Physostegia leptophylla (slimleaf false dragonhead)
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Physostegia intermedia. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=f360
- North Carolina State University. (2021, March 16). Physostegia intermedia. Retrieved from https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/all/physostegia-intermedia/
- United States Department of Agriculture. (n.d.). Plants profile for Physostegia intermedia. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=PHIN2
