Figwort (Scrophularia marilandica)
Distinctive, tall Figwort (Scrophularia marilandica) reaches 5-10 ft, offering unique greenish-purple summer blooms in eastern North American gardens.
Complete Plant Information
Overview
Scrophularia marilandica, widely recognized by its common name Figwort, is a striking and statuesque herbaceous perennial native to the woods and roadsides of central and eastern North America. Gardeners value this plant for its commanding, upright presence, easily reaching heights of five to ten feet, providing excellent vertical structure in the landscape. While its small, greenish-purple flowers may not be flashy, they contribute unique texture during the mid to late summer season.
This robust perennial exhibits low maintenance requirements once established, making it an excellent choice for naturalistic plantings or woodland garden settings. The striking, square stems give rise to its secondary common name, Carpenter’s square, adding interest even when blooms are absent. Growing Scrophularia marilandica successfully is straightforward, provided its need for consistently moist soil is met.
The historical use of this plant, whether as a traditional remedy by Native Americans or in older European herbalism (from which the genus name Scrophularia derives), further underscores its significance beyond mere aesthetics. Incorporating Figwort into your garden provides reliable summer interest and supports a piece of North American native flora.
Fast Facts
- Plant Family: Scrophulariaceae
- Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
- Native Range: Central and eastern North America
- Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 4-7
- Size at Maturity:
- Height: 5-10 ft
- Spread: 3-6 ft
- Bloom Time: July to September
- Bloom Description: Greenish-purple
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
- Water Needs: Medium
- Maintenance Level: Low
How to Grow
To successfully establish Figwort, aim to plant in the spring or early fall when conditions are favorable for root establishment. This species thrives best when positioned in moist, well-drained soils; it particularly favors sandy loams. While it tolerates full sun, Scrophularia marilandica generally performs best and maintains better color and vigor when placed in partial shade, especially if the afternoon sun is intense.
Watering requirements are medium; ensure the soil does not completely dry out, particularly during establishment or prolonged dry spells in summer. Fertilization is rarely necessary; rich, undisturbed woodland soils usually provide sufficient nutrients. If growing in poorer soil, a light application of compost around the base in spring is beneficial rather than relying on synthetic fertilizers.
Maintenance for this tall perennial is generally low. Pruning is seldom required, though cutting back the old stems in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges keeps the appearance tidy until then. The structure provided by the leaves and flowers usually remains attractive throughout the blooming period.
Landscape Uses
The towering vertical habit of Scrophularia marilandica makes it an ideal architectural anchor in dappled shade settings within woodland gardens. Plant Figwort in drifts toward the back of a border where its height will not overshadow smaller foreground plants, creating a layered, immersive woodland feel. Its shade tolerance suggests pairing it with other moisture-loving native woodland flowers like Astilbe, large ferns, or diverse sedges.
For a less formal look reminiscent of its native habitat—open woods and thickets—allow Scrophularia marilandica to naturalize slightly. It serves well as a screening plant or as a dramatic vertical accent against hardscaping or fences where deep green foliage is desired. Its tendency to send up multiple branching structures ensures it remains visually interesting across a wide area.
Standout Features
Flower Qualities
- Showy
Noteworthy Characteristics
Scrophularia marilandica, commonly known as figwort, is an upright, square-stemmed, perennial with multiple branching that typically grows to 5-10’ tall. It is native to open woods and roadsides from Quebec to Ontario to Minnesota south to Florida and Texas. In Missouri, it is typically found in rich moist woodlands, ravines, thickets and wood margins throughout the State (Steyermark). Tiny, greenish-purple 2-lipped, tubular flowers (1/4” long) with reddish-brown interiors bloom in summer (July-September) in loose, terminal, pyramidal, thrysoid panicles (each to 12” tall). Long-stalked ovate to lanceolate, dull green leaves (4-6” long and to 3” wide) have serrate margins. Fruit is an ovoid capsule. Native Americans brewed a tea from the roots for treating fevers and piles, and for use as a diuretic and tonic.Genus name is in reference to a one-time use of some genus plants in the treatment of scrofula (tubercular swelling of the lymph glands of the neck).Specific epithet means of Maryland.Common name of figwort is in reference to an early use of the plant in treating piles (once known as figs). Additional common name of carpenter’s square is in reference to the grooved square plant stems.
Tolerances
Potential Problems
Fortunately, Figwort tends to be relatively pest-free, meaning it suffers no serious insect or disease problems under good cultural conditions. Gardeners should be vigilant for signs of leaf spot or downy mildew, particularly in humid, overly dense plantings where air circulation is poor. Prevention involves ensuring adequate spacing between plants and avoiding overhead watering late in the day. Potential insect pests include manageable issues like caterpillars, slugs, and weevils; routine inspection and treating localized outbreaks with insecticidal soap should suffice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hardiness zones is Figwort suitable for?
Scrophularia marilandica is suitable for USDA Hardiness Zones 4 through 7.
How large does Figwort grow?
When mature, this plant typically reaches a height between 5 and 10 feet, with a spread ranging from 3 to 6 feet wide.
What sun exposure does Scrophularia marilandica need?
This plant prefers full sun to part shade conditions, although it will appreciate and often thrive best with some afternoon shading.
When does Figwort bloom?
Scrophularia marilandica blooms throughout the summer, specifically from July to September, presenting unique greenish-purple flowers.
Conclusion
The Figwort (Scrophularia marilandica) offers substantial vertical presence and reliable, low-maintenance performance for the native or woodland garden setting. Its historical significance alongside its tolerance for part shade makes it a unique architectural addition. Before planting, confirm your garden falls within USDA Zones 4-7 and ensure you can provide the medium, consistent moisture it requires to reach its impressive mature height.
Companion Planting
When placing Scrophularia marilandica in a landscape, consider companions that share its preference for moisture retention and dappled light. Plants with contrasting foliage texture work beautifully against the large, dull green leaves of the Figwort. Good partners include goldenrod varieties that handle partial shade, large Hosta cultivars, and various types of woodland ferns such as Ostrich Fern (Matteuccia struthiopteris). These companions help anchor the base of the tall stems while fulfilling similar soil and sun requirements.
Wildlife Benefits
Although the flowers of Scrophularia marilandica are not the primary target for large, showy pollinators, they are structurally well-suited for smaller specialized insects. The tubular, two-lipped flowers are known to attract various small bees and solitary insects seeking nectar. Furthermore, as a host plant native to eastern North America, the foliage supports local caterpillar populations, contributing significantly to the garden’s overall ecosystem health and supporting the life cycle of local butterfly and moth species.
