About Physostegia virginiana (L.) Benth.
Taxon Identity and Growth Habit
Physostegia virginiana (L.) Benth. is a rhizomatous herbaceous perennial plant that forms clumps of stiff, square stems that grow 2 to 4 feet (0.61 to 1.22 meters) tall.
Leaf Characteristics
Its leaves are lanceolate in shape and have toothed edges.
Inflorescence and Flower Features
The inflorescence is a long, dense raceme that holds many tubular pink flowers, which resemble snapdragons.
Fruit and Seed Characteristics
Its open fruit is vase-shaped, and contains four triangular black seeds.
Ornamental Value
In cultivation, it is valued as a good plant for adding late-season flowers to a garden.
Soil Response and Support Needs
Growing it in fertile soil results in robust growth and wide spreading, so the plant may need to be staked.
Growth Habit Management
Tall growth gives the plant a "tendency toward floppiness", which can be managed with pruning.
Invasive Growth Potential
This species can grow aggressively and come to dominate a landscape.
