Eastern False Dragonhead
Physostegia purpurea
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
FL, GA, NC, SC
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Eastern false dragonhead produces tall spikes of tubular purple flowers from summer into fall. This native perennial forms neat clumps and tolerates various growing conditions while providing reliable seasonal color.
In an HOA neighborhood
Eastern False Dragonhead 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.
- Spreads aggressively and can look weedy
- May appear too wild or uncontrolled for formal landscapes
- Dies back completely in winter leaving bare spots
Wildlife value
The tubular flowers attract bees and butterflies throughout the long blooming period. Seeds provide food for birds in fall and winter.
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.
Does Eastern False Dragonhead fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.