General Information
Status in Florida: Native
Native Habitat: Moist woodlands, floodplains, meadows, and roadsides
Native States: Southeastern and eastern United States, including Florida
Growing Zones: 5-9
Size at Maturity: 2-4 feet tall, 1-2 feet wide
Phenology: Winter dormant
Life Cycle: Perennial
Growth Rate: Moderate
Growth Habit: Upright, clumping
Bloom Season: Late spring to early summer
Bloom Color: Lavender to pink with a white throat
 
Growth Conditions
Sunlight Requirements: Full-Part
Soil Texture: Loam, sand, well-drained
Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral
Moisture Requirements: Average to moist
Tolerance to Salt Spray: Low/None
Keystone Plant: No
 
Landscape Considerations
Recommended Landscape Uses: Pollinator gardens, wildflower meadows, borders, naturalized areas, rain gardens
Maintenance Tips: Cut back spent flowers to encourage reblooming; avoid overwatering; mulch to retain moisture
Considerations: Can be short-lived but reseeds readily; prefers well-drained soil to prevent root rot
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 in traditional medicine for respiratory ailments and wound healing
Florida Native Companion Plant: Blue-eyed Grass (Sisyrinchium angustifolium), Golden Alexander (Zizia aurea), Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata), Blazing Star (Liatris spp.)
Wildlife Benefit: Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds
Caterpillar Host Plant: No
Propagation: Seeds (cold stratification improves germination), cuttings