Overview
Physostegia edwardsiana Shinners is a perennial plant that is part of the mint family, Lamiaceae. It is native to the southwestern United States and the northern parts of Mexico.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Edward's False Dragonhead or Edwards' Obedient Plant. This is in reference to its dragon-like flowers and the way its blooms stay in position when moved, giving the impression of a "trained" plant.
Description
Physostegia edwardsiana grows to a height of 3 to 5 feet and spreads 1 to 2 feet wide through underground runners. The leaves are lance-shaped and grow up to 5 inches long and 1 inch wide. The flowers bloom in mid to late summer and are a vibrant pink-purple color with a tubular shape. They grow in long spikes that can reach up to 2 feet in length.
Uses
Edward's False Dragonhead makes a great addition to any flower garden or mixed border. It thrives in moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant is also a great attractor of pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
In addition to its aesthetic value, Physostegia edwardsiana has been used in traditional medicine to treat a range of ailments such as respiratory infections and stomach ailments. It is also believed to have anti-inflammatory properties.
Light Requirements
Physostegia edwardsiana Shinners is a sun-loving plant. It thrives in full sunlight, but partial shade may also be beneficial in areas with extremely hot summers. Shaded conditions may cause the plant to grow taller for more access to light.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm temperatures and mild winters. It can survive temperatures of up to 90°F, but it becomes dormant in colder climates. This plant is best grown in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers moist, fertile soils that are rich in organic matter. A pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 is ideal. Soil drainage is critical, and the plant does not thrive in waterlogged conditions. Adding organic matter to the soil helps retain moisture and boost nutrient levels.
Water Requirements
Physostegia edwardsiana Shinners requires adequate watering to thrive. The plant prefers consistently moist soil but cannot tolerate waterlogged areas. Sand or gravel can be added to the soil mixture to improve drainage if necessary. During the summer months, the plant may need frequent watering due to high temperatures and low humidity.
Cultivation methods
Physostegia edwardsiana Shinners, also known as Edward’s False Dragonhead, is a herbaceous perennial plant. It is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal maintenance. It grows well in full sunlight or partial shade and does not require specific soil conditions.
The plant can be propagated by division or seeds. Division is done in early spring or late fall. Seeds can be sown in early spring or late fall in a prepared bed. Seeds should be sown thinly and covered lightly with soil.
Watering Needs
Physostegia edwardsiana Shinners requires moderate watering. The plant likes moist soil but can tolerate seasonal dryness. Overwatering can lead to root rot. The plant should be watered directly on the base of the plant and not on the foliage, especially in the evening. Watering should be done thoroughly once a week, and more frequently during hot summer months.
Fertilization
Physostegia edwardsiana Shinners does not need much fertilizer but can benefit from occasional feeding. Fertilizer can be added to the soil in the spring or fall, providing a slow-release balanced fertilizer to the bed. Fertilizing should not be done during the growing season. Over-fertilization can lead to lush growth, which can cause the plant to flop over.
Pruning
Physostegia edwardsiana Shinners does not require much pruning. The plant should be deadheaded regularly to encourage continuous blooming. Deadheading removes spent blooms before they can set seed. If the plant becomes too tall and flops over, it can be cut back to the ground and it will re-sprout.
In conclusion, Physostegia edwardsiana Shinners is an easy-to-grow plant that requires a moderate amount of water and occasional fertilizer. Deadheading is necessary to encourage continuous blooms. The plant can be propagated through division or seeds and does not require specific soil conditions.
Propagation of Physostegia edwardsiana Shinners
Physostegia edwardsiana Shinners, commonly known as Edward's False Dragonhead, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the mint family. It is native to the southeastern United States and grows up to a height of 2-3 feet with a spread of about 18 inches. The plant produces spikes of tubular, pink to lavender flowers that bloom in late summer and early fall. Propagation of Physostegia edwardsiana Shinners is relatively easy and can be done using several methods.
Seed Propagation
The easiest way to propagate Physostegia edwardsiana Shinners is through seed. Collect ripe seeds from the plant in late fall or early winter and store them in a cool, dry place until ready to sow. In late winter or early spring, sow the seeds in a seed tray filled with well-draining soil. Cover the seeds lightly with soil and water them thoroughly. Place the tray in a warm location with bright, indirect light. Keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes 2-3 weeks. Once the seedlings have grown large enough to handle, transplant them into individual pots and grow them on until they are ready to plant in the garden.
Division
Another propagation method for Physostegia edwardsiana Shinners is division. Divide the plant in early spring or fall when the plant is dormant. Dig the plant out of the ground and separate the roots into several clumps. Make sure each clump has its own stems and roots. Replant the clumps in well-draining soil at the same depth as they were previously planted. Water the plants thoroughly and keep the soil moist until they become established.
Root Cuttings
Root cuttings can also be used to propagate Physostegia edwardsiana Shinners. Take root cuttings of about 2-3 inches in length and plant them in a moist and well-draining soil mixture. Cover the cuttings with soil and water them thoroughly. Place the pot in a warm, bright location with indirect light. Keep the soil moist until the cuttings develop new growth. Once the cuttings have rooted, transplant them into individual pots and grow them on until they are ready to plant out in the garden.
Conclusion
Propagating Physostegia edwardsiana Shinners is easy and can be done using seeds, division, or root cuttings. With proper care and attention, plants propagated via any of the above three methods will grow to maturity and produce beautiful pink to lavender flowers that brighten any landscape.
Disease Management
Physostegia edwardsiana Shinners, also known as Obedient plant, is generally resistant to most diseases. However, fungal diseases like powdery mildew, root and stem rots, and rust can occasionally affect the plant.
To manage powdery mildew, it is essential to keep the foliage dry by watering early in the day and providing enough spacing between plants for good air circulation. If the disease is already present, applying fungicide to the infected plant parts can be helpful.
To manage root and stem rots, avoid over-watering the plant, provide good drainage, and avoid planting the Obedient plant in soil with a history of the disease. For plants that already show signs of the disease, watering with a fungicide solution may be beneficial.
Finally, rusts can be prevented by removing infected leaves and debris around the plant and providing good air circulation around the foliage.
Pest Management
While the Obedient plant is generally relatively resistant to pest infestation, a few insects and mites can cause damage to the foliage. One common pest is the spider mite, which causes the leaves to appear yellowed and covered in webbing.
To manage spider mites, regular monitoring of the plant for signs of infestation is necessary. Spraying the foliage with insecticidal soap or neem oil can be effective in controlling the problem.
Another pesky insect that can infest the Obedient plant is the flea beetle, which creates small holes in the leaves. Placing sticky traps around the plant can be helpful in trapping and controlling the flea beetles.
Overall, regular monitoring and proper plant care, such as watering early in the day and providing good air circulation, can help prevent both disease and pest problems with your Physostegia edwardsiana Shinners.
