Obedient plant 'Crown of Snow' Physostegia virginiana 'Crown of Snow'

Water

Obedient plant needs regular watering to maintain consistently moist soil, especially during its growing season in spring and summer. On average, water about one to two times a week, with around a gallon of water each time for an average-sized plant in a garden setting, depending on weather conditions and soil drainage. During periods of high heat or drought, it may require more frequent watering to prevent wilting. As fall approaches and growth slows, reduce watering frequency. Always ensure the soil is damp to a depth of at least an inch below the surface as Obedient plant's root system benefits from thorough watering as opposed to light sprinkling.

Light

Obedient plant thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. A spot that receives six to eight hours of direct sunlight is ideal for promoting vigorous growth and abundant blooming. If grown in too much shade, the plant may become leggy and produce fewer flowers. It can tolerate some light shade, especially in hotter climates where some afternoon shade can prevent overheating and stress on the plant.

Temperature

The Obedient plant prefers temperate conditions and can survive in a range of temperatures from as low as about 20 degrees Fahrenheit to as high as 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature for robust growth is between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. While it can withstand occasional dips below freezing, prolonged exposure to severe cold may damage or kill the plant.

Pruning

Pruning Obedient plant is important to maintain its shape and encourage denser growth. Cut back the plant by about one-third in early summer to promote a bushier habit and more flower spikes. After blooming, prune spent flower stalks to tidy the plant and encourage a potential second flush of flowers. The best time for major pruning is in late winter or early spring, just before new growth starts.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Obedient Plant 'Crown of Snow' thrives in a fertile, moist but well-draining garden soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. Mix garden loam with compost and peat moss to improve fertility and moisture retention, while ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot.

Repotting

Obedient Plant 'Crown of Snow' is generally not a container-grown plant, but if potted, repot every 2-3 years during early spring to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth.

Humidity & Misting

Obedient Plant 'Crown of Snow' is adaptable to a wide range of humidity conditions and does well in average garden environments without the need for specialized humidity.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Bright indirect light, moist soil, regular feeding.

• Outdoor

  Full sun to part shade, rich moist soil, space 18-24 inches.

• Hardiness zone

  3-9 USDA

Life cycle

Obedient Plant 'Crown of Snow' begins its life cycle as a dormant seed which germinates in late winter to early spring. Upon sprouting, it develops a rosette of leaves at the ground level, and as temperatures rise, it sends up tall spikes that will later bloom. During the summer months, the plant produces dense, spike-like racemes of striking white flowers, which are attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. After flowering, the plant sets seed, which may fall to the ground and germinate nearby or be dispersed by wind or wildlife. Obedient Plant is a perennial, so as the cooler weather arrives, the above-ground portion of the plant dies back while the roots survive underground, entering a period of dormancy through the winter. With the return of warmer spring weather, the plant re-emerges from its rootstock, ready to begin the cycle anew.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Late Spring to Early Summer

• The Obedient Plant, commonly known as Physostegia virginiana 'Crown of Snow', is best propagated by dividing its clumps, which can be done either in early spring or in the fall after the growing season has ended. To propagate by division, carefully dig up an established plant and gently separate the root ball into smaller sections, making sure each section has several shoots and a healthy portion of roots. These divisions can then be immediately replanted in the garden, spaced about 18 to 24 inches (approximately 45 to 60 centimeters) apart to allow enough room for growth. Water the newly planted divisions thoroughly to help establish them. This method is effective because it allows the new plants to benefit from a well-developed root system from the start and tends to ensure a higher success rate compared to seed propagation, which can be less reliable and require more time for the plants to reach maturity.