Dracocephalum forrestii (Dragon's Head) — perennial herb

Overview

Dracocephalum forrestii is a perennial herb in the genus Dracocephalum, part of the Q53476 family. Dracocephalum forrestii grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained and loamy or sandy soil soils and neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include rock gardens, borders and herb gardens. It is native to China.

About

Dracocephalum forrestii is a perennial herb with aromatic leaves and summer flowering. It flowers from July to September. Native to China, it favours well-drained loamy or sandy soils of neutral to slightly alkaline reaction. It grows best in full sun or partial shade on a south-facing site and carries a UK hardiness rating of H5.

About the genus

Dracocephalum is a genus of flowering plants in the family Lamiaceae, native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. These flowers, collectively called dragonhead, are annual or perennial herbaceous plants or subshrubs, growing to 15 to 90 centimeters tall. The genus has 89 species as currently circumscribed, which includes the formerly separate genera Hyssopus, Lallemantia, and others.

Wikipedia contributors, "Dracocephalum", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Dracocephalum

In the garden

A perennial herb from China, Dracocephalum forrestii brings aromatic foliage and a clear summer flowering period from July to September. The plant suits sunny to partially shaded spots and tolerates locations from sheltered to exposed, making it adaptable across many garden situations where a south-facing aspect can be offered. Plant into well-drained loamy or sandy soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH and avoid waterlogged ground; the species prefers a moderate soil moisture regime. Its UK hardiness rating H5 indicates it is hardy through typical winter conditions in most parts of the country when given appropriate drainage and a reasonably sunny position. Use Dracocephalum forrestii in rock gardens, herb beds and at the front of borders where its aromatic leaves can be appreciated. Flowering in mid to late summer, it provides seasonal interest when many shrubs have finished, and its scent rewards close-up planting in herb gardens and pathways.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Dracocephalum

Sunlight: full sun, partial shade
Soil type: well-drained, loamy or sandy soil
Soil pH: neutral to slightly alkaline
Soil moisture: moderate
Aspect: south-facing
Exposure: sheltered to exposed
UK hardiness: H5

Plant details

Dracocephalum forrestii size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: perennial herb
Suggested uses: rock gardens, borders, herb gardens
Native to: China
Fragrance: aromatic leaves

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Dracocephalum forrestii

Cultivation: Prefers well-drained soil and a sunny position; avoid waterlogging.
Pruning: Cut back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushiness.
Propagation: seed, cuttings

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Dracocephalum forrestii?

Prefers well-drained soil and a sunny position; avoid waterlogging.

Where is the best place to plant Dracocephalum forrestii?

Dracocephalum forrestii prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered to exposed positions.

What soil does Dracocephalum forrestii need?

Dracocephalum forrestii grows best in well-drained and loamy or sandy soil soil. It prefers neutral to slightly alkaline soil. Aim for soil that stays moderate.