General Information
Status in Florida: Native
Native Habitat: Moist pine flatwoods, savannas, wet meadows, bogs
Native States: FL, GA, AL, MS, SC, NC, LA
Growing Zones: 5–9
Size at Maturity: 1–2 feet tall, 1–2 feet wide
Phenology: Evergreen in mild climates, semi-evergreen to winter dormant in colder zones
Life Cycle: Perennial
Growth Rate: Moderate
Growth Habit: Clumping, basal rosette, herbaceous
Bloom Season: Late spring to summer
Bloom Color: Lavender to purple (cultivars may include blue, white, or pink tones)
Growth Conditions
Sunlight Requirements: Full-Part
Soil Texture: Sand, loam, well-drained
Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral
Moisture Requirements: Moist, average, well-drained
Tolerance to Salt Spray: Low/None
Keystone Plant: No
Landscape Considerations
Recommended Landscape Uses: Borders, pollinator gardens, rain gardens, butterfly gardens, native flower beds
Maintenance Tips: Deadhead to encourage rebloom; divide clumps every few years for vigor
Considerations: Does not tolerate prolonged wet or soggy soils in winter; prefers good drainage
Hurricane Wind Resistant: Yes
Erosion Control: Yes
Nitrogen Fixing: No
Other Information
Edible: No
Pet Safe: Yes
Deer and Rabbit Resistance: Yes
Historical Medicinal Uses: None widely documented
Florida Native Companion Plant: Butterfly Milkweed, Blazing Star, Swamp Milkweed
Wildlife Benefit: Butterflies, bees, native pollinators
Caterpillar Host Plant: No