Culver's Root (Veronicastrum virginicum) [ver-on-ih-KAS-trum ver-JIN-ih-kum]

Veronicastrum virginicum, commonly known as Culver's Root or American Veronicastrum, is a striking, upright, herbaceous perennial native to eastern North America. This plant typically grows 4-6 feet tall, with a clumping habit and attractive, lance-shaped leaves that are often covered with fine, silvery hairs, giving them a slightly fuzzy appearance. In late summer and early fall, Veronicastrum virginicum produces tall, slender spikes adorned with clusters of small, vibrant white to pale lavender flowers that resemble asters and attract butterflies, bees, and parasitic wasps. The flowers are borne on tall, slender stalks, creating a graceful and airy effect. This plant boasts attractive, clean foliage and prefers moist soils, but is tolerant of variable soils, including clay. Veronicastrum virginicum holds tufted seed heads well into winter, providing food for birds. It is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is tolerant of a variety of conditions, making it a good choice for gardens, meadows, and naturalized areas. This plant is also known for its medicinal properties, having been used traditionally for its calming and anti-inflammatory effects.

• Fine Gardening
• Illinois Wildflowers
• Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
• Missouri Botanical Garden
• USDA
• Wikipedia

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