Scrophularia marilandica

Sizes available: Large fiber pot (2 gal. +) with five plants growing together well

Basics: zones 4-8, dappled sun to part shade, up to 6' x 2' (some sources say taller). tiny numerous reddish-brown urn-shaped flowers on short branching structures arranged around a square stem. Blooms from late summer into fall, adaptable, but prefers medium to medium/dry nutritious soil that is well-drained.

Common names: Late Figwort, Maryland Figwort, Carpenter's Square, Eastern Figwort

Family: Scrophulariaceae

Origin/Distribution: Go Botany says this is native to the southern tip of Maine. Although it is present here, our early-blooming figwort, Scrophularia lanceolata, is much more widespread. According to the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, Late Figwort is not present in Maine, but does occur in Quebec and Ontario, Vermont and New Hampshire south to Florida, west to Texas, and as far north as South Dakota and Minnesota. So, we will say native to Maine. 

Habitat: This is a classic woodland edge plant. Adaptable to open woods, thickets, and road edges. A good self seeder with a narrow and see-through profile, so welcome almost anywhere. 

More: It is difficult to distinguish S. marilandica from Early Figwort, S. lanceolata except their bloom times barely overlap (maybe July). Both are absolute pollinator powerhouses for nectar which goes to show it isn't always about the biggest and boldest blooms. The leaves and root have been used medicinally, however, this plant is potentially toxic so proceed with caution. I use the dried seed heads for texture in dried flower arrangements. Deer resistant. More information coming soon.

Source: Grown on at Honey Petal Plants with landscape plugs from Pizzo Native Plants

Image credits: Wikimedia Commons