Physostegia correllii (Correll's False Dragonhead)
Correll's False Dragonhead is a rare, water-loving perennial, growing up to about four feet tall and producing spikes of purple flowers from June through September. It is an endangered species that historically ranged across southern Louisiana, southeastern and central Texas, and the Mexican states of Coahuila, Nuevo León, and Sonora — but today survives in only a handful of locations. It is classified as an obligate wetland species - meaning it occurs almost exclusively in wet habitats such as streambanks, irrigation ditches, and roadside seeps. It is adaptable and can thrive in average garden conditions with moist to wet soils. Perfect for rain gardens, pond's edge, near streams and other water sources or low spots in a garden. Spreads by rhizomes. A 2009 Native Plant Society of Texas (Boerne Chapter) field note adds that a population in northern Bexar County — one of the few known Texas sites — continued thriving and blooming even through a second consecutive summer of drought, suggesting resilience once established near a reliable water source. AT A GLANCE Texas native Yes Water use Medium, high Sun exposure Sun Bloom color Purple Bloom time Summer, fall Mature height 3-4 ft Attracts Bees DISTRIBUTION MAPS USDA MAP BONAP MAP Present in state Present in county and native Native to North America, but adventive & escaped in state Not present in state Present and rare, native in county Previously present, now extinct Questionable presence (cross-hatched, regardless of color)