Height: Typically grows 120-200 cm (4-6 feet) tall, with erect, sturdy stems.
Flowers: Clusters of small, pink to purplish flowers arranged in dense, terminal corymbs. Each flower has five spreading lobes and is attractive to butterflies and other pollinators.
Leaves: Whorled or opposite leaves with lanceolate to elliptic shape, often with serrated margins. Leaves are typically dark green and may exhibit purplish spotting, especially along the stem.
Stem: Strong, upright stems that are typically spotted or streaked with purple.
Blooming Season: Flowers typically bloom from mid to late summer, adding color to the garden when many other plants are past their prime.
Known Range:
Native to: Eastern North America, particularly found in wetlands, meadows, and along stream banks from Ontario and Quebec south to Georgia and west to Texas and Minnesota.
Care Requirements:
Sunlight: Prefers full sun to partial shade.
Soil: Thrives in moist to wet soils with good drainage. Can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including loamy, sandy, or clay soils, as long as they are consistently moist.
Watering: Requires consistent moisture, especially during periods of drought. Provide supplemental watering during dry spells to keep the soil evenly moist.
Fertilization: Generally does not require fertilization if grown in nutrient-rich soil. However, a light application of balanced fertilizer in spring can promote healthy growth.
Maintenance: Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming and prevent self-seeding. Cut back stems to ground level in late fall or early spring to encourage vigorous growth and prevent overcrowding.
Pests and Diseases: Generally resistant to pests and diseases, but may occasionally suffer from powdery mildew or rust. Provide good air circulation around plants to prevent fungal diseases.
Many of the flowering plants featured on our website are available through Nature Hills Nursery. Ordering them through this link will support the Cernunnos Foundation and your garden!