Marsh Obedient Plant
Physostegia intermedia
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
12"–60" H × 12"–60" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AR, IL, KY, LA and 3 more states
Pollinators
butterflies, bees, hummingbirds, nectar insects
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Marsh Obedient Plant is a tall native perennial that produces spikes of tubular flowers from spring through summer. It thrives in wet conditions and can spread aggressively through underground rhizomes to form colonies. The plant gets its name from flowers that stay put when moved by hand on the stem.
In an HOA neighborhood
Marsh Obedient Plant 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, mid zone.
- Spread too large for structured beds
Wildlife value
Excellent pollinator plant supporting butterflies, bees, hummingbirds, and other nectar-feeding insects throughout its long bloom period. The extended flowering season from March through August provides consistent nectar when many other plants have finished blooming.
Common questions
- How much sun does Marsh Obedient Plant need?
- Marsh Obedient Plant grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Marsh Obedient Plant bloom?
- Marsh Obedient Plant blooms in March, April, May, June, July, and August.
- Where is Marsh Obedient Plant native?
- Marsh Obedient Plant (Physostegia intermedia) is native to AR, IL, KY, LA and 3 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Marsh Obedient Plant attract?
- Marsh Obedient Plant draws butterflies, bees, hummingbirds, and nectar insects.
- Is Marsh Obedient Plant HOA-friendly?
- Marsh Obedient Plant 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.
Does Marsh Obedient Plant fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.