General Information
Status in Florida: Native
Native Habitat: Dry prairies, open woodlands, roadsides, and sandhills
Native States: Eastern and central United States, including Florida
Growing Zones: 3-9
Size at Maturity: 3-5 feet tall, 1-2 feet wide
Phenology: Winter dormant
Life Cycle: Perennial
Growth Rate: Moderate
Growth Habit: Upright, clumping
Bloom Season: Late summer to fall
Bloom Color: Light purple to lavender with yellow centers
 
Growth Conditions
Sunlight Requirements: Full-Part
Soil Texture: Sand, loam, well-drained
Soil pH: Neutral to slightly acidic
Moisture Requirements: Dry to average
Tolerance to Salt Spray: Low/None
Keystone Plant: Yes
 
Landscape Considerations
Recommended Landscape Uses: Pollinator gardens, wildflower meadows, borders, butterfly gardens, cottage gardens
Maintenance Tips: Cut back in late winter to promote fresh spring growth; can self-seed and spread if not managed
Considerations: May flop over if grown in too much shade or overly rich soil; staking may be needed in some conditions
Hurricane Wind Resistant: Moderate
Erosion Control: Yes
Nitrogen Fixing: No
 
Other Information
Edible: No
Pet Safe: Yes
Deer and Rabbit Resistance: Moderate resistance
Historical Medicinal Uses: Used by Native Americans for fever relief and respiratory issues
Florida Native Companion Plant: Blazing Star (Liatris spp.), Goldenrod (Solidago spp.), Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta), Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium)
Wildlife Benefit: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators; seeds provide food for birds
Caterpillar Host Plant: Yes (supports several butterfly and moth species)
Propagation: Seeds, division, cuttings