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.
UTILIZE. 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.
GENERAL. Physostegias require a rather moist soil in either sunny or shady places. The plants spread very rapidly and will tend to become a nuisance unless they are divided every year or two. They are of easy culture and should be planted about 2, feet apart in good soil.
PROPAGATION. These plants are easily started from seed, or new plants can be had when the plants are divided every year.
