Physostegia virginiana
Physostegia virginiana (L.) Benth.
Obedient Plant is a native North American perennial with snapdragon-like flowers on tall spikes. Its unique name comes from the flowers staying in place when moved by hand, creating an interactive garden feature.
Lamiaceae (Mint family)
Mid-summer to fall (July-October)
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: obedient plants and statices also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Obedient Plant earned its unique common name from the curious characteristic that individual flowers can be moved on the stalk and will remain obediently in their new position, as if hinged. This interactive quality has delighted gardeners for generations. As a North American native, it represents the rich wildflower heritage of prairies and wetlands. The plant's late-season blooms provide crucial nectar for pollinators preparing for winter, symbolizing the generosity of nature and the importance of late-blooming plants in ecosystems. Despite its vigorous spreading habit, many gardeners cherish it for bringing vibrant color and pollinator activity to gardens when many other perennials have finished blooming.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade (6+ hours sun for best flowering)
Water
Moderate to high moisture needs, adaptable to both wet and drier conditions once established
Soil
Moist, Well-drained to poorly drained, Moderately fertile, Loamy, Clay acceptable, Neutral to slightly alkaline (pH 6.5-7.5)
Expert Growing Tips
Plant in spring or fall
Spreads aggressively by rhizomes in rich, moist soil
Divide every 1-2 years to control spread
May need staking in rich soil or shade
Pinch back in late spring for bushier, more compact plants
Deadhead or cut back after first flush for possible rebloom
Drought tolerant once established
Deer and rabbit resistant
Hardy in zones 3-9
Cultivar Miss Manners is clump-forming and less aggressive
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Perennial borders and cottage gardens
- Native plant gardens and prairie restorations
- Pollinator and hummingbird gardens
- Rain gardens and moist areas
- Cutting gardens (long-lasting)
- Meadow plantings
- Late-season color
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Physostegia virginiana
Why is it called obedient plant?
The name comes from the unique characteristic that individual flowers can be pushed into a new position on the spike and will obediently stay where placed, as if they were hinged.
Is Physostegia virginiana invasive?
Obedient Plant spreads vigorously by rhizomes and can be aggressive in rich, moist soils. It is native to North America but may need containment in gardens. Cultivars like Miss Manners are less aggressive.
Do hummingbirds like obedient plant?
Yes, hummingbirds are attracted to Obedient Plant flowers, along with bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. The tubular flowers provide nectar from mid-summer through fall.
How do you control obedient plant spread?
Divide clumps annually or every 1-2 years, pull out unwanted shoots (shallow roots make this easy), plant in contained areas, or choose less aggressive cultivars like Miss Manners.
Is obedient plant deer resistant?
Yes, Obedient Plant is highly deer and rabbit resistant. The square stems and mint family characteristics make it unappealing to browsing animals.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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Obedient Plant
Physostegia virginiana
The Obedient Plant produces spikes of tubular flowers that can be moved and stay in position, hence its name. This native North American perennial symbolizes flexibility, adaptability, and gentle compliance.
Statice
Limonium sinuatum
Statice is a hardy annual flower prized for its papery, colorful bracts that retain their color when dried. It symbolizes remembrance, success, and sympathy, making it popular for both fresh and dried arrangements.
Asarina
Asarina scandens (syn. Maurandya scandens)
Asarina scandens, known as Climbing Snapdragon, is a delicate yet vigorous tender perennial vine producing masses of tubular, snapdragon-like flowers. Perfect for trellises and containers, it blooms profusely from summer to frost.