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Description
Physostegia Virginiana, commonly known as Obedient Plant, is a beautiful flowering perennial plant native to North America. It typically grows up to 2-4 feet tall and spreads up to 2-3 feet wide. This plant produces spikes of densely clustered, tubular-shaped flowers in shades of pink, white, or lavender that bloom from late summer to early fall. The flowers are arranged in a unique way that they remain in place when moved, hence the name Obedient Plant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Physostegia |
Appearance
The leaves of Physostegia Virginiana are lance-shaped, green, and toothed, growing up to 6 inches long. The stems are square-shaped, sturdy, and smooth, and produce spikes of flowers that can be up to 8 inches long. The flowers bloom in late summer and early fall and are tubular-shaped, arranged in whorls on the spikes, and can be pink, white, or lavender in color. The plant can grow up to 2-4 feet tall and spreads up to 2-3 feet wide.
Care Guide
Physostegia Virginiana is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you care for your Obedient Plant:
Water: This plant prefers moist but well-drained soil, especially during the hot summer months. Water regularly, but avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing as this can cause the plant to become leggy and flop over.
Soil: Physostegia Virginiana prefers well-drained soil rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but avoid heavy clay soils as they can become waterlogged.
Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause the plant to become leggy and flop over.
Hardiness Zones: Physostegia Virginiana is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Physostegia Virginiana is generally pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to rust, powdery mildew, and spider mites. To prevent these issues, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Physostegia Virginiana is native to North America and can be found growing in wet meadows, open woods, and along stream banks. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate some flooding.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Physostegia Virginiana invasive?
A: No, Physostegia Virginiana is not considered invasive. However, it can self-seed and spread if not controlled.
Q: Can I grow Physostegia Virginiana in a container?
A: Yes, Physostegia Virginiana can be grown in a container. Use a large pot with well-drained soil, and make sure to water regularly as container plants dry out faster than those in the ground.
Q: How do I propagate Physostegia Virginiana?
A: Physostegia Virginiana can be propagated by division in the spring or fall. Simply dig up the plant, divide the roots, and replant in well-drained soil.
Q: How do I deadhead Physostegia Virginiana?
A: Deadhead the plant by removing the spent flower spikes as they fade. This will encourage the plant to produce more flowers.
Related Plants
- Physostegia intermedia
- Physostegia parviflora
- Physostegia pulchella
- Physostegia virginiana ‘Alba’
- Physostegia virginiana ‘Rosea’
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Physostegia Virginiana. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b355
- The Spruce. (n.d.). How to Grow and Care for Obedient Plant. Retrieved from https://www.thespruce.com/growing-obedient-plant-1315873
- Gardening Know How. (2021). Obedient Plant Care – How To Grow Physostegia Virginiana. Retrieved from https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/obedient-plant/obedient-plant-care.htm
