More info
Datasheet
| Aquarium Compatible | yes |
| Plant Outdoor | yes |
| Plant Emersed Growth | yes |
| Plant Growth | very slow |
| Temperature Tolerance | 4°C / 39.20°F - 25°C / 77.00°F |
| Temperature | 22°C / 71.60°F - 24°C / 75.20°F |
| Carbonate Hardness | 0-14 kh |
| pH Value | 5-7.5 ph |
| Light | medium-high |
| Carbon Dioxide (CO2) | 20-40mg/lmg/l |
| Nitrate (NO3-) | 10-50mg/lmg/l |
| Phosphate (PO43-) | 0.1-3mg/lmg/l |
| Potassium (K+) | 5-30mg/lmg/l |
| Iron (Fe) | 0.01-0.5mg/lmg/l |
General Description
Physostegia purpurea, also known as Eastern false dragonhead, is a perennial swamp plant native to the southeastern USA. It is capable of both emersed and submerged growth, thriving in open, acidic habitats like wet pine savannas. This plant forms a small rosette of elongated stalked leaves under aquarium conditions, with emersed forms producing tall flowering shoots reaching about 1 meter in height. It bears vibrant red-violet flowers in spike-like inflorescences, resembling its relative, the Physostegia virginiana.
Aquarium Suitability
While Physostegia purpurea has been cultivated for some time, it remains relatively unknown in the aquarium hobby. It is considered suitable for aquariums and can be utilized as a midground or foreground plant in groupings.
Demands and Hardiness
Physostegia purpurea is classified as an easy plant to care for in aquarium settings. It has very slow growth and is known to tolerate colder temperatures. The plant requires medium to high lighting, a pH range of 5-7.5, and a temperature between 22-24°C. It can adapt to varying levels of carbon dioxide, carbonate hardness, and nutrient concentrations.
Aquascaping & Usage
In aquascaping, Physostegia purpurea can add visual interest with its distinctive foliage and colorful flowers. Its ability to grow in both emersed and submerged forms provides aquarists with options for creative layouts, especially in naturalistic or biotope aquariums mimicking swampy environments.
Propagation
Propagation of Physostegia purpurea is achievable through several methods, including runners, cuttings, and splitting. Additionally, daughter plants can be separated from the parent to encourage further growth and expansion within the aquarium.
Habitat and Distribution
This species is found in the coastal plain of the southeastern USA, specifically in states such as North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida. Physostegia purpurea thrives in swampy areas and wet pine savannas, where it contributes to the unique ecosystems of these regions. The plant's adaptability to differing water conditions and its hardiness make it a resilient species in its native habitat.