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Description
Physostegia Purpurea, commonly known as Obedient Plant, belongs to the mint family and is native to North America. It is a herbaceous perennial plant that can grow up to 4 feet tall and has lance-shaped leaves. The plant produces spikes of pink or purple flowers that bloom from late summer to early fall. The name “Obedient Plant” comes from the unique characteristic of the flower spikes being able to be bent and positioned in any direction, but remaining in that position once set.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Physostegia |
Appearance
The Obedient Plant has a beautiful and unique appearance. It has lance-shaped leaves that are 2-4 inches long and 1 inch wide. The flowers grow in spikes that are 6-12 inches long and bloom from late summer to early fall. The flowers are usually pink or purple, but can also be white. The plant can grow up to 4 feet tall and 2 feet wide, making it a great addition to any garden or landscape.
Care Guide
Physostegia Purpurea is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you care for your Obedient Plant:
- Water: Water your plant regularly, especially during dry spells. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Feed your plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Physostegia Purpurea prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade. Provide it with at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: Physostegia Purpurea can grow in USDA hardiness zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Obedient Plants are generally pest and disease-resistant. However, they can be susceptible to powdery mildew, leaf spot, and rust. To prevent these diseases, make sure the plant has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Aphids and spider mites can also be a problem, but can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Physostegia Purpurea is native to North America and can be found in wet meadows, prairies, and along streambanks. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate some flooding. The plant is also commonly grown in gardens and landscapes as an ornamental plant.
Question and Answer
Q1: What is the meaning behind the name “Obedient Plant”?
A1: The name “Obedient Plant” comes from the unique characteristic of the flower spikes being able to be bent and positioned in any direction, but remaining in that position once set.
Q2: What is the ideal growing condition for Physostegia Purpurea?
A2: The plant thrives in full sun to partial shade, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter, and moist soil.
Q3: How do you care for an Obedient Plant?
A3: Water your plant regularly, feed it with a balanced fertilizer once a month, provide it with at least 6 hours of sunlight per day, and make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Q4: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Physostegia Purpurea?
A4: The plant can be susceptible to powdery mildew, leaf spot, rust, aphids, and spider mites.
Related Plants
- Physostegia virginiana
- Monarda didyma
- Liatris spicata
- Agastache foeniculum
References
- “Physostegia virginiana.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b740. Accessed 28 April 2021.
- “Physostegia virginiana.” Plant Care Today, plantcaretoday.com/physostegia-virginiana. Accessed 28 April 2021.
- “Physostegia Purpurea.” Chicago Botanic Garden, www.chicagobotanic.org/plantcollections/plantfinder/physostegia_purpurea–obedient_plant. Accessed 28 April 2021.
