Slenderleaf False Dragonhead

(Physostegia leptophylla)

Slenderleaf False Dragonhead (Physostegia leptophylla)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Physostegia leptophylla, commonly known as Slenderleaf False Dragonhead, is a deciduous perennial herb native to moist meadows, stream banks, and wet prairies in the Southeastern United States. It typically grows to a height of 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters) and a width of 0.1-0.3 feet (0.03-0.09 meters). The plant features narrow, lance-shaped leaves and spikes of tubular, snapdragon-like purple flowers that bloom in the summer and fall, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The flowers are quite showy and can add a splash of color to garden borders.

Slenderleaf False Dragonhead is valued for its long blooming period and its ability to thrive in wet conditions, making it an excellent choice for rain gardens or areas with poor drainage. It is also used in perennial borders and as a cut flower due to its attractive blooms. This plant prefers full sun to part shade and requires consistently moist soil. It can spread by rhizomes to form colonies, so it may need to be managed to prevent it from becoming too aggressive in a garden setting. While generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew in humid conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 2-3 feet
  • Width: 0.1-0.3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Purple
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium, High
  • Drainage: Slow

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Moist meadows, stream banks, and wet prairies in the Southeastern United States

Other Names

Common Names:

Scientific Names: , Physostegia leptophylla, Physostegia veroniciformis, Physostegia aboriginorum, Dracocephalum leptophyllum, Dracocephalum veroniciforme, Dracocephalum veroniciformis,

GBIF Accepted Name: Physostegia leptophylla Small