Overview
Physostegia virginiana (L.) Benth. var. formosior (Lunell) Boivin is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the mint family Lamiaceae. This plant is native to North America and is commonly known as obedient plant or false dragonhead due to its unique ability to bend its flowers in any direction, resembling a dragon's head that follows a movement.Appearance
The obedient plant has an upright growth habit, which can reach up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. The plant produces square stems that are sturdy and hairy. The leaves of the plant are lance-shaped, with serrated edges, and grow to be around 4 inches long and 1 inch wide. The flowers of the plant are tubular and can range in color from pink to purple-white. Each flower has a hooded upper lip that resembles a dragon's nose and two lower lips that resemble a dragon's open mouth and tongue.Origin
Obedient plant is native to North America and can be found growing in several states of the United States, including Florida, Mississippi, and Illinois. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soils and can be found growing near streams, lakes, and wetlands.Uses
The obedient plant has several medicinal uses, including traditional Native American remedies for treating sore throats, diarrhea, and insect bites. The plant has been used as an ornamental plant due to its attractive appearance and unique flower structure. The plant is also used in wildlife gardening, as it attracts several species of bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds with its nectar-rich flowers. In conclusion, the obedient plant or false dragonhead is a unique, attractive, and versatile plant that has several uses. Its ability to bend its flowers in any direction adds to its distinctive appearance, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscaping. Additionally, its traditional medicinal uses and wildlife gardening benefits make it a valuable and significant plant.Light Requirements
The Physostegia virginiana var. formosior prefers full sun to partial shade for optimum growth. It can tolerate some shade but may produce fewer flowers in such conditions. When grown in full sun, the plant exhibits better growth and more robust flowering.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows best in areas with cool to moderately warm temperatures. It thrives in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 9, where the average annual temperature ranges from 15 to 25 °C. However, the plant can tolerate temperatures as low as -30°C, making it adaptable to cold climates. At the same time, it can withstand high temperatures and drought conditions, making it a hardy plant in different environmental conditions.
Soil Requirements
Physostegia virginiana var. formosior can grow in various soils, but it prefers moist and well-drained soil. The soil should be rich in organic matter, with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 7.5. It can grow in low-fertility soils but may require frequent fertilization to achieve optimum growth. The plant can also tolerate slightly alkaline soils and saline soils, although they may affect the plant's growth and flowering.
Cultivation Methods
Physostegia virginiana (L.) Benth. var. formosior (Lunell) Boivin, commonly known as obedient plant, is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the mint family. It is relatively easy to grow and can thrive in most soils, as long as they are moist and well-draining. Plant them in full sun or partial shade for optimal growth and flowering. Propagation can be done through seed or division of root clumps. It is best to start seeds indoors in late winter and transplant them outside after the last frost. To divide root clumps, wait until the fall or early spring when the plant is not actively growing and dig up the clump using a garden fork. Carefully separate the root ball into smaller sections with a sharp knife or garden shears and replant them immediately.Watering Needs
Physostegia virginiana plant prefers moist, well-draining soil. During the growing season, water the plant regularly and deeply, ensuring the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged. Consistent watering is essential for the plant's overall health and robust growth. However, avoid watering the foliage, aim for the soil around the base of the plant beneath the leaves.Fertilization
The obedient plant does not require heavy fertilization to grow and thrive. In early spring, a light application of balanced fertilizer can be helpful in promoting healthy foliage and abundant flowering. Avoid using high nitrogen fertilizers, as this can encourage lush foliage growth and fewer blooms. You can also add organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure to the soil during planting and top the soil with a thin layer of mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.Pruning
Pruning Physostegia virginiana helps to control plant size, promote bushier growth, and prolong flowering. It is best to prune obedient plants in early spring before new growth appears. Cut back the previous year's foliage to ground level using a sharp pair of garden shears or scissors. This encourages new growth while removing any dead or damaged stems. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to keep the plant looking neat and tidy and to prolong the blooming period.Propagation of Physostegia virginiana (L.) Benth. var. formosior (Lunell) Boivin
Physostegia virginiana (L.) Benth. var. formosior (Lunell) Boivin, commonly known as obedient plant, is propagated through various means. The most common methods of propagating this plant include:
Division
Division is the simplest and quickest method of propagating obedient plants. The ideal time to divide the plant is during the early spring when the new growth begins to emerge. First, dig up the entire clump and separate the individual rhizomes. Each rhizome should have a few healthy roots and shoots. Replant the sections in a prepared bed and water thoroughly.
Cuttings
Another way to propagate obedient plants is through cuttings. This method is best done during late spring or early summer when the plant has plenty of new growth. Take 4-6 inch cuttings from the new growth and strip off any leaves from the lower part of the stem. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder and plant in a well-draining potting mix. Water frequently and keep the cuttings in a shaded area. After a few weeks, the cuttings should start developing roots. Once well-rooted, transplant the new plants to a prepared bed.
Seed propagation
For seed propagation, the obedient plant flowers should be allowed to mature and form seed heads. Collect the seeds as soon as they are ripe and plant them immediately in a well-draining soil mix. Water the seeds and keep them in a sunny area. The seeds should germinate in a few weeks and can be transplanted to a prepared bed once they are large enough to handle.
With any one of these propagation methods, the resultant plants will require regular watering for the first few weeks to ensure their roots become well established.
Disease and Pest Management for Physostegia Virginiana var. Formosior
Physostegia virginiana var. formosior, commonly known as Miss Manners Obedient Plant, is a beautiful, hardy perennial that produces stunning spikes of pinkish-purple flowers in late summer. However, like any other plant, it is prone to certain diseases and pests that can cause significant damage. Therefore, it is important to know how to manage these issues to keep your plant healthy and thriving.
Common Diseases
Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease that can affect Physostegia virginiana var. formosior. It manifests as a white or gray powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage powdery mildew, avoid watering the plant from above and provide good air circulation. Apply a fungicide to the plant every seven to fourteen days until the issue is resolved.
Leaf spot: Leaf spot is another common fungal disease that causes circular, brown or black spots on the leaves. To manage leaf spot, remove the infected parts of the plant and avoid overhead watering. Applying a fungicide every two weeks can help control the spread of the disease.
Common Pests
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the sap from the leaves of the plant, causing them to turn yellow and eventually die. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with water daily to keep the leaves moist, remove heavily infected leaves, and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to the plant every seven to ten days until the issue is resolved.
Slugs and snails: Slugs and snails are common pests that feed on the leaves of the plant, leaving large holes in the foliage. To manage slugs and snails, remove any debris around the plant, create a barrier using copper tape or crushed eggshells, and apply a slug and snail bait around the plant.
Overall, with proper care and attention, it is possible to manage the various diseases and pests that can affect Physostegia virginiana var. formosior. By following the tips outlined above, you can help keep your plant healthy and beautiful throughout the growing season.
