Plant Profile: Physostegia virginiana 'Miss Manners'

The 'Miss Manners' Obedient Plant is a naturally occurring variant of Physostegia virginiana 'Rosea,' characterized by its compact growth and limited spread. It thrives in moist, well-drained soil that is moderately fertile, preferring conditions ranging from full sun to partial shade.

Belonging to the mint family, this plant earns its name from the unique ability of its flowers to be repositioned along the stalk, where they will remain in place. It is an excellent addition to meadows or pollinator gardens, attracting bees, hummingbirds, and various other pollinators.

The flowers are tubular, measuring about 1 inch in length, and are white, arranged in an eye-catching terminal spike. The corolla features a swollen throat, with a domed upper lip and a lower lip that spreads into three lobes. Due to its shorter stature, 'Miss Manners' typically does not require staking and is known to rebloom from summer through fall. The flowering process begins at the base of each spike and progresses upward.

However, it is important to note that this plant is susceptible to black spot fungal disease.

For further details on Physostegia virginiana, additional resources are available.