American Figwort
Scrophularia lanceolata
Last reviewed: July 2026
Scrophularia lanceolata (American Figwort) is a native forb found across most US states that blooms June through August. This adaptable plant tolerates various light and moisture conditions while attracting bees and flies.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
CA, CO, CT, DE and 33 more states
Pollinators
bees, flies
Deer
Resistant (per Prairie Moon Nursery)
Browse plants for this ecoregion
American figwort is a native perennial wildflower that grows in upright clumps with small, inconspicuous greenish-brown flowers from June through August. It thrives in partially shaded areas with average moisture and provides reliable summer blooms for beneficial insects.
Growing American Figwort
Grow American Figwort in part shade and medium water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 6 to 12 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
American Figwort takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Flowers are small and brownish, lacking visual appeal
- Common name includes 'figwort' which sounds weedy
- Can appear scraggly and informal in growth habit
Wildlife value
This plant is particularly valuable for native bees and beneficial flies that pollinate its small but numerous flowers. The blooms provide nectar during the mid-summer period when many other native plants have finished flowering.
Common questions
- When does American Figwort bloom?
- Scrophularia lanceolata blooms from June through August, producing small flowers that attract various pollinators.
- What pollinators visit American Figwort?
- American Figwort is visited by bees and flies, making it a valuable native plant for supporting pollinator populations.
- Where is Scrophularia lanceolata native?
- American Figwort is native to most US states from coast to coast, including California, Colorado, New York, Texas surrogate states, and many others across diverse regions.
- What growing conditions does American Figwort prefer?
- This adaptable forb tolerates full sun to partial shade and various moisture levels, though it typically grows best with medium water conditions.
- Is American Figwort HOA-friendly?
- American Figwort takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow American Figwort? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz