Pontechium maculatum, commonly known as Purple Viper’s Bugloss or Paterson’s Curse, is a semi-deciduous perennial herb native to Eastern Europe and the Caucasus. It thrives in a variety of habitats including open woodlands, coastal areas, and disturbed sites such as roadsides and pastures. This species is particularly well-adapted to dry, sandy soils and is often found in fields and grasslands. It typically grows rapidly to a height of 1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters) and a width of 1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters), with a rosette of hairy leaves at the base and erect stems.

Pontechium maculatum is known for its vibrant purple or pink flowers that bloom in the summer and are highly attractive to bees and other pollinators. The flowers are showy and arranged in a spike, making it a popular choice for ornamental gardens. It is often used in wildflower mixes and as a border plant due to its striking color and ease of maintenance. In cultivation, it requires full sun and well-drained sandy or loamy soils, and it is drought-tolerant once established. While it is not a heavy feeder, it can benefit from occasional fertilization. Gardeners should be aware that in some regions, particularly Australia, it is considered an invasive species and can outcompete native plants.CC BY-SA 4.0