Physostegia virginiana 'Vivid'

Flowers

• Appearance: The flowers are tubular and arranged in dense, upright spikes, creating a dramatic vertical accent in the garden. Each bloom is a vibrant pink to lavender-pink, with subtle markings on the petal tips for added texture.
• Size: Individual flowers are about 1 inch long, and the flower spikes can grow up to 6–8 inches in length.
• Bloom Time: Blooms prolifically from mid-summer to early fall, providing long-lasting color during the growing season.
• Pollinator Attraction: The nectar-rich blooms are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making it a favorite in pollinator gardens.

Foliage

• Appearance: The leaves are lance-shaped and medium green, growing opposite along the square stems. They provide a clean, tidy appearance that contrasts well with the colorful flower spikes.
• Texture: Smooth and slightly glossy, adding subtle shine to the foliage.
• Seasonality: Deciduous in colder climates, with foliage dying back in winter and re-emerging in spring.

The combination of bright, showy flowers and clean, green foliage makes Physostegia virginiana 'Vivid' a striking and dynamic addition to borders, wildflower gardens, and water-adjacent plantings.

Planting Requirements

• Light: Thrives in full sun but tolerates partial shade, particularly in hotter climates. Full sun encourages the best flowering and compact growth.
• Soil: Prefers moist, well-draining soil but is adaptable to various soil types, including clay and sandy soils. Tolerates wet conditions, making it suitable for rain gardens or areas with poor drainage.
• Planting Time: Plant in spring or early fall when temperatures are mild to establish a strong root system.

Watering

• Keep the soil consistently moist during the first growing season to help establish roots.
• Once established, the plant is moderately drought-tolerant but thrives with regular watering, especially during dry spells.

Fertilization

• Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support growth and flowering.
• Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage at the expense of blooms.

Pruning

• Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming throughout the growing season.
• Cut the plant back to the ground in late fall or early spring to encourage healthy regrowth.

Growth Habit and Size

• Forms upright clumps with square stems and a vigorous spreading habit.
• Grows 2–3 feet tall and 1–2 feet wide, making it ideal for borders, wildflower gardens, and naturalized settings.

Pests and Diseases

• Generally pest- and disease-free. However, powdery mildew may occur in humid climates with poor air circulation. Space plants properly and ensure good airflow to minimize issues.

Special Features

• Flowers: Showy, tubular, bright pink to lavender-pink flowers are arranged in dense spikes that bloom from mid-summer to early fall. The blooms are loved by bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
• Foliage: Lance-shaped, medium-green leaves grow opposite along the stems, providing a clean and tidy appearance.
• Pollinator Attractiveness: A great addition to pollinator-friendly gardens due to its nectar-rich flowers.

Companion Planting

• Combines well with asters, echinacea, and black-eyed Susans in mixed perennial borders.
• Its moisture tolerance makes it an excellent choice near ponds or in rain gardens.

Winter Care

• Hardy in USDA zones 3–9. In colder climates, a light layer of mulch can help protect the roots during winter.

Additional Tips

• Spreading Habit: Known for its vigorous growth, 'Vivid' can spread aggressively in ideal conditions. To manage its spread, divide clumps every 2–3 years or plant it in contained areas.
• Ideal for pollinator gardens, meadow-style plantings, or as a striking focal point in perennial borders.

With its bold flowers, adaptable nature, and pollinator-friendly traits, Physostegia virginiana 'Vivid' is a vibrant and low-maintenance addition to any garden.