Rhexia virginica (Virginia Meadow Beauty)

Rhexia virginica (Virginia Meadow Beauty) is an attractive, erect to sprawling perennial boasting an abundance of showy flowers, 1 in. (2.5 cm), with 4 pink-purple petals and 8 bright yellow stamens. Blooming in loose, nearly terminal clusters in late spring to early fall, the blossoms open in the morning and often drop petals by early afternoon. The blossoms attract bees, moths, butterflies, and other pollinators. They are followed by seed capsules that turn red in the fall and then persist through winter. Virginia Meadow Beauty is a hairy perennial with bright green, oval to egg-shaped opposite leaves, 1-3 in. (2-7 cm), with small bristly teeth on the margins. Growing from an underground tuber, this plant will spread rapidly. Native to eastern America, Virginia Meadow Beauty occurs naturally in wetlands, wet meadows, bogs, seepage slopes, and open sandy locations. It is perfect for the bog garden or wet meadow.

• Grows up to 12-24 in. tall (30-60 cm) and 12-18 in. wide (30-45 cm),
• Performs best in sandy acid, moist to wet soils in part shade. Tolerates full sun. In very sunny areas, Virginia Meadow Beauty is often partially shaded by taller plants.
• Great for native plant gardens, naturalized areas, coastal gardens, banks and slopes, bog gardens, rain gardens, near ponds and streams.
• No significant pest or disease issues. Frequently damaged by deer.
• Propagate by seed. Stratify for 2 to 3 months.
• Native to much of eastern North America.