Veronicastrum virginicum

Veronicastrum virginicum, commonly called Culver's root, is a large, erect, native perennial that resembles a large veronica, except its lance-shaped leaves are in whorls on the stems. Dense, slender, 9" long spikes (racemes) of tiny, tube-like, white to pale blue flowers open from the top down in late spring to early summer atop strong, upright stems. Bloom can extend well into the summer. Smaller, branching, erect, lateral racemes give the plant a candelabra-like effect when in full bloom. Root has been used medicinally as a cathartic.
 
Care:
Easily grown in average, medium to wet, well-drained soil in full sun. Tolerates light shade (and appreciates some afternoon shade in the deep South), but tends to flop and require support if grown in too much shade. Soils should not be allowed to dry out. Usually takes several years to establish itself in the garden. Deadhead spent racemes to extend bloom period. Cut back plants after flowering to basal growth to stimulate new foliage growth and possible late summer or fall bloom.
 
Type: Herbaceous perennial
Family: Plantaginaceae
Zone: 3 to 8
Height: 4.00 to 7.00 feet
Spread: 2.00 to 4.00 feet
Bloom Time: June to August
Bloom Description: White to pale blue
Sun: Full sun
Water: Medium to wet
Maintenance: Low
Flower: Showy
Attracts: Butterflies
Tolerate: Wet Soil