Blue Snakeweed, Porterweed

Frost Tolerance: Avoid any frost

Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade

Origin: Tropics around the world

Growth Habits: Sprawling, weedy perennial shrub, 2 to 4 feet tall (0.6-1.2 m), 6 feet in spread (1.8 m); oblong to elliptical leaves, 0.8 to 3.5 inches long (2-9 cm)

Watering Needs: Moderate water, drought tolerant

Propagation: Seeds, self-sows

Blooming Habits:
Purple, salmon –pink or red flowers, 0.25 inch in diameter (6 mm), in spikes up to 18 inches long (45 cm). The flowers open in the morning and close in the afternoon, they are attractive to bees and butterflies. The Stachytarpheta blooms year around.

Culture:
Plant 3 to 4 feet apart to make a continuous row. The plant should be cut back every year to keep compact, and regular trimming will keep it in shape.