Obedient Plant

Obedient Plant (Physostegia virginiana)

Obedient Plant, or Physostegia virginiana, is a versatile and eye-catching native perennial known for its tall spikes of tubular flowers in shades of pink, lavender, and white. Blooming from late summer to fall, its flowers can be "bent" to stay in place, hence the name "obedient." This plant thrives in moist to moderately wet soils and is ideal for naturalized landscapes, meadows, rain gardens, and pollinator gardens. It attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making it a great choice for those looking to support pollinators.

Key Characteristics:

• Pollinator Magnet: Obedient Plant's tubular flowers are highly attractive to pollinators, particularly bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, providing them with nectar during the late summer and fall, extending the pollinator season.

• Moisture-Loving and Thrives in Wet Soils: This plant thrives in moist to moderately wet soils, making it ideal for rain gardens, wet meadows, and streambanks. It can tolerate occasional flooding and performs well in areas with consistent moisture.

• Long Bloom Time: Blooming from late summer through fall, Obedient Plant adds a splash of color to the garden when many other perennials have finished flowering, keeping the landscape vibrant and supporting late-season pollinators.

• Spreads Aggressively: While Obedient Plant is easy to grow, it can spread aggressively, particularly in rich, moist soils. It’s best suited for naturalized areas where its spreading habit can be managed or allowed to fill in large spaces.

• Deer Resistant: Like many native plants, Obedient Plant is deer resistant, making it a good choice for gardens that experience deer pressure.

Product Details:

• Native range: Eastern and Central North America
• Plant life cycle: Perennial
• Sun requirements: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil requirements: Moist to moderately wet soils
• Mature height: 3-4 feet
• Bloom time: Late summer to fall (August to October)
• Bloom color: Pink, lavender, white
• USDA Hardiness zones: 3-9

Obedient Plant is a striking and adaptable native perennial that brings late-season color and supports pollinators. Its ability to thrive in moist soils, combined with its deer resistance and long bloom time, make it a great addition to rain gardens, meadows, and pollinator gardens.