Type: Perennial herbaceous wildflower
Sun: Full sun
Water Needs: Low; highly drought tolerant once established and adapted to dry prairie and mountain environments
Height: 6–12" tall
Spread: 6–12"
Spacing: 12–18" apart
Bloom Time: May–July (occasionally into early fall depending on conditions)
Bloom Description: Upright stems bearing clusters of lavender to pale purple tubular flowers with a distinctive fuzzy, hair-covered sterile stamen (“tongue”) that gives the plant its common name. The blossoms are funnel-shaped and often marked with darker veins that guide pollinators to nectar.
Maintenance: Low; thrives in lean soils and generally requires little care. Avoid overwatering or overly rich soils, and allow seed heads to mature if natural reseeding is desired.
Soil Drainage: Requires well-drained soil; performs best in dry, sandy, gravelly, or rocky soils and tolerates disturbed or shallow soils.
Wildlife Value: Attracts native bees, especially bumble bees, as well as butterflies and other pollinators seeking nectar. Seeds and foliage can also provide food resources for wildlife.
Garden Use: Well suited for rock gardens, prairie plantings, and xeriscapes. Its compact size and drought tolerance make it ideal for dry slopes, gravel gardens, and restoration plantings where a hardy native wildflower is desired.