The Fall Obedient Plant (Physostegia virginiana) is a striking North American perennial known for its tall, erect stems and beautiful spikes of pink to lavender tubular flowers. Its unique characteristic allows individual flowers to be bent and stay in the new position, adding an interactive element to garden displays. Adaptable to a range of conditions, from full sun to shade, it thrives in moist, humus-rich soils but is also tolerant of drought and poor drainage. While it can spread aggressively by stolons, it is easily managed by removing shallow roots. The nectar-rich flowers attract hummingbirds and butterflies, enhancing its ecological value, and its high deer resistance ensures that it remains a vibrant addition to the garden.
Scientific Name: Physostegia virginiana
Origin: Quebec to Minnesota and South Dakota, south to Florida, Texas, and Coahuila in northern Mexico
Height: 3 to 5 feet
Spread: 2 to 3 feet
Light: Full Sun, Part Shade, Full Shade
Water: Medium, High
Hardiness: Zones 3-9
Bloom: August to November