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Stachytarpheta jamaicensis
Being a very hardy perennial, it is available in purple, bright salmon-pink, and red. Zones 9 - 11 winter over this plant nicely. It tolerates most soil conditions and habitats which keep it blooming most of the year. However, when fertilized, it becomes a giant in its own right.
The bloom appears on a spike and can reach a full growth of ten inches. Full sun and drought conditions have little effect on the plant. Propagation of this plant is easy, by putting any stem node in water or perlite for two weeks. Try it. It's a no-fail plant for the proper zone.
Some questions from Emily's mailbox: Q: I have a blue porter weed, good-sized (approx. 2.5 feet high), planted in a medium sized pot. Due to freezing conditions, I have been moving it inside from time to time. My plant has been dropping A LOT of leaves & seems to not be happy overall. I did notice that some of the leaves (most of which have dropped) looked webby (like maybe something was eating them). I did spray it & it seems to be doing better. The remaining leaves are still green and there are still several blue flowers. Should I be cutting the plant back or leaving it outside in temporarily freezing conditions? Any ideas? A: You have done all the correct things towards your plant. This is a very tropical plant and performs best in the spring-summer- and fall. During the winter months, it will tend to be less of a performer. Yes using some soap and water will " clean" your plant form insects. This plant also does love hot temperatures... so the winter can not provide as much as it does during the great growing season. It may die back completely for the winter..... mine does. And I live in zone 8b-9. But if you are in a warmer zone and prefer to keep taking it inside and then outside again keep it up........ |
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It is surprising to some that this native
plant of the tropical south east is being cultivated for the best of
gardens. It was considered a weed for so long. 
It is a great addition to any