About

Dracocephalum austriacum, the Austrian dragon's head, is a compact, aromatic perennial or sub-shrub with needle-like to narrow, greyish-green leaves and upright spikes of large, deep-blue to violet, two-lipped, tubular flowers in summer. A rewarding and ornamental plant for a sunny, well-drained rock garden or border.

About the genus

Dracocephalum, the dragon's heads, are aromatic annuals, perennials and dwarf evergreen shrubs in the mint family (Lamiaceae) with aromatic, green foliage ranging from needle-shaped to nettle-like and two-lipped, sage-like, tubular flowers in shades of purple, blue or white in summer. Ornamental plants for sunny, well-drained borders and rock gardens.

Plant details

Suggested usesBedding, containers, hanging baskets.

Care notes

CultivationPlant out after last frost in fertile, well-drained soil.
PruningDeadhead regularly to prolong flowering.
PropagationGrow from seed sown in spring.
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free. Monitor for common garden pests.
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-resistant. Ensure good air circulation.