Physostegia virginiana 'ROSEA' obedient plant
size/type
mid-sized perennial,mid-sized perennial
usual height
0,6-0,8m
usual width
0,3-2m
leaves
deciduous broadleaf
colour of leaves
flowers
showy
colour of flowers
blooming time
August-September
location
full sun
USDA zone (lowest)
3 (down to -40°C)
winter protection
for zone 5+6
for zone 7
categorized
Obedient plant is native to eastern coast of North America and the genus comprises of about 12 species. Physostegia virginiana is native to lower, a little warmer parts of East USA down to North Mexico yet it is extremely hardy. There are two subspecies accepted (praemorsa and virginiana) and two commercial (speciosa and grandiflora), which often hybridize among themselves making it impossible or even pointless trying to categorize its correct subspecies group.
Description of the plant:
Rosea is a Virginian obedient plant forming strictly upright, square stems with up to 20 cm long spikes of 4 rows of flowers in summer. They are snapdragon-like, pale pink with impressive drawings in the throat, and open from early August until early September.Narrowly lanceolate, finely serrated leaves are soft green and glossy, and look very lush. It appears that the plant has no bugs apart from slugs which seldom make too much harm as they prefer other plants if available. Its rhizomes spread fast and the plant soon makes large and dense tufts, and rather quickly fills larger areas. Make this a benefit and use it in locations where you want to fill up a space. Combine it with other perennials of the same strength, or woody plants, avoid weaker perennials that might get forced out.
Obedient plant loves moist or partially wet sites. Grow it preferably in full sun. It can take light shade but is not as pretty and tends to escape the shade to all day sunlight. Excellent hardiness to -40°C (USDA zone 3).
Last update 07-03-2018
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