1/2-pint plug
Exposure: Full Sun - Full Shade
Moisture: Medium - Medium Dry
Height: 6 Feet
Bloom: August - September
Description: Essential plant for our oak habitats! Most are not aware that Figworts are one of the best nectar species for attracting native butterflies, bees, other insects - and birds, including the Ruby-throated Hummingbird! Large, serrated leaves and sturdy stalks boast shiny reddish-brown small flowers that appear to drip with nectar. Figworts are given a special rating by the Xerces Society because of their value to insects: "Special Value to Native Bees: recognized by pollination ecologists as attracting a large numbers of native bees." and "Supports Conservation Biological Control: A plant that attracts predatory or parasitoid insects that prey upon pest insects." If you have a large population of deer in your area, the tissues of Figworts contain many acrid compounds and thus they are usually not browsed by herbivores. In the fall, these leaves and stalks will turn maroon with tear-drop shaped seed pods filled with tons of tiny seeds. Late Figwort grows well in average garden soils, both on the wet or dry sides, and thrives in full sun but also tolerates up to 70% shade. Figwort can reach heights of over 5 feet and will readily re-seed in the right conditions. Its beauty is hard to capture in photos; these are definitely plants best enjoyed close-up and in person. Rarely available from most nurseries, planting these strange Figworts will surely bring joy and novelty to any native landscape.
