Lopseed
Phryma leptostachya · Phrymaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant lopseed: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- July to September
- Adult size
- 24 to 35 inches in height
- Growth
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (zone 4 to 9)
- Origin
- North America (United States)
- Soil type
- Well-drained soils, rich in organic matter
Care
Exposure
Plant your phryma in partial shade or dappled shade, especially in warm regions. It tolerates moderate sun but appreciates some coolness. A location sheltered from strong winds is preferable.
Watering
Keep the soil regularly moist, especially during the growing season and prolonged dry spells. Water at the base to prevent foliage issues. Reduce watering in winter once the plant is dormant.
Soil and potting mix
Prepare a humus-rich substrate that drains well, with neutral to slightly acidic pH. Adding compost or peat at planting improves structure and water retention. Phryma dislikes standing water.
Fertilizer
Apply balanced fertilizer in spring as growth begins. A light dose of organic fertilizer at the start of flowering supports vigor. Avoid excess nitrogen, which would favor foliage at the expense of flowers.
Pruning and maintenance
After flowering, prune lightly to maintain a compact shape. In late winter or early spring, cut back dry stems to ground level. Remove dead or diseased stems to promote air circulation.
Diseases and pests
Phryma is generally little affected by pests and diseases. In overly humid conditions, root rot may occur: improve drainage and ensure good air circulation. Check for powdery mildew in confined situations.
Did you know?
Phryma leptostachya is a discreet yet fascinating plant from North American flora, long known by this name but recently rediscovered in modern botanical classifications. Its small pink or lavender flowers attract pollinators, especially bees, in the heart of summer, when many flowers are fading.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Spotted monkey flowerErythranthe guttata
- Diplacus aurantiacusDiplacus aurantiacus
- Allegheny monkey flowerMimulus ringens
- Musk monkeyflowerErythranthe moschata
- Red bush monkeyflowerDiplacus puniceus
- Erythranthe lewisiiErythranthe lewisii
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.