Looseflower Water-Willow
Dianthera ovata
Bob Peterson from North Palm Beach, Florida, Planet Earth!
Taxonomy
- Division:
- Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
- Family:
- Acanthaceae
- Genus:
- Dianthera
- Species:
- Dianthera ovata
Growth Characteristics
- Life Cycle:
- Perennial
- Growth Habit:
- Forb/herb
- Height:
- 2-3 ft
- Light Requirements:
- Full Sun
- Drought Tolerance:
- High
- Bloom Months:
- apr, may, jun, jul
- Bloom Colors:
- White, Blue
Native Range
United States: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia
Host Plant for Caterpillars
Cuban crescent (Anthanassa frisia), Texan crescent (Anthanassa texana)
Soil Requirements
- Soil Type:
- rich, well-drained loamy soil
- pH:
- 5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Drainage:
- excellent drainage required
- Moisture:
- consistently moist
- Notes:
- prefers riparian zones and wetland edges