Maryland Figwort

Plant of the Week August 22, 2022

Maryland Figwort (Scrophularia marilandica)

Written by Nyle Zikmund, Anoka County Master Gardener

Maryland Figwort is a native perennial best suited for a part shade garden. This towering giant can reach heights from five to ten feet tall, so it works best in the back of the garden bed. While it may not have the most glamourous flower, it is a pollinator magnet. Its nectar will attract hummingbirds, bees, and many other helpful pollinators. Best of all, it is deer resistant.

This native blooms from July to September. The flowers are tubular with a round base and brown to reddish color. Although the blooms aren’t the main attraction, an abundance of mature plants can provide a visually pleasing array.

Mature plants produce copious amounts of seeds. If spreading is undesirable, a bit of weeding in the spring easily takes care of it. Other than the seeds, they are a very low-maintenance plant.

It prefers loamy soils and medium moisture but can tolerate medium dry conditions. It can also handle shade, part shade, sun, and medium to dry moisture levels. This undemanding pollinator magnet is a sure-fire garden winner! 

More Information at Minnesota Wild Flower - https://bit.ly/3SRIIoB

Missouri Botanical Gardens - https://bit.ly/3C70jmq