The False Dragon Head (Physostegia virginiana) is another one of the few August blooming plants. It is extremely beautiful with spikes of rosy pink, lilac, or white flowers, which are tube-shaped and similar to a tiny Snapdragon blossom. The buds and flowers grow on the stem as if growing on the four sides of a square. The plant grows about 3 feet or 4 feet high, spreads out, and has very pretty foliage surrounding the graceful spikes. It begins blooming in July and lasts through September. The names Obedient Plant and Accommodation Flower are derived from the fact that the flowers remain at any angle at which they are turned.
Where to plant Physostegia
This plant is splendid in a border, but because the flowers are pale, brighter contrasting colors should be worked in around it to bring the pink or lilac color out. The flowers last for a long time and are very useful for cut flowers. They are good in the border because they bloom at a time when many other flowers have finished. They are especially effective near waterfalls, along stream banks, or when placed in front of dark green shrubs.
Landscape requirements
Physostegias require moist soil in sunny or shady places. They spread very rapidly and will tend to become a nuisance unless they are divided every year or two. They are easy to grow and should be planted about two feet apart in good soil.
How to propagate
These plants can be easily started from seed, or new plants can be obtained by dividing them every year.
