Blue Porterweed

(Stachytarpheta jamaicensis)

Blue Porterweed (Stachytarpheta jamaicensis)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

Stachytarpheta jamaicensis image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Stachytarpheta jamaicensis, commonly known as blue porterweed, is a perennial herb native to the tropical Americas. It is often found in open areas such as fields, along roadsides, and in disturbed sites. This species typically grows to a height of 1-2 feet (30-60 cm) and spreads to a similar width. Blue porterweed has slender, erect stems with small, oblong leaves and produces spikes of petite, tubular, blue to violet flowers that bloom throughout the year in its native habitat, attracting butterflies and other pollinators.

Blue porterweed is valued for its continuous flowering and ability to attract wildlife, making it a popular choice for butterfly gardens and informal borders. It is considered easy to maintain and can be grown in a variety of soil types, provided they are well-drained. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and requires moderate watering. While it is not typically aggressive, it can self-seed and spread in favorable conditions. Gardeners should be cautious about its potential invasiveness outside its native range and check local regulations before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 1-3 feet
  • Width: 2-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Blue, Purple
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Open areas such as fields, along roadsides, and in disturbed sites

Other Names

Common Names: Jamaican Snakeweed , Rat’s Tail , Indian Snakeweed , Jamaica-Vervain , Jamaican Porterweed , Blue Snakeweed , Light-Blue Snakeweed , Bastard Vervain

Scientific Names: Stachytarpheta jamaicensis , ? jamaicense , Abena jamaicensis , Cymburus urticifolius , Stachytarpheta bogoriensis , Stachytarpheta indica var. jamaicensis , Stachytarpheta jamaicensis f. albiflora , Stachytarpheta jamaicensis f. atrocaerulea , Stachytarpheta jamaicensis f. atrocoerulea , Stachytarpheta jamaicensis f. monstrosa

GBIF Accepted Name: