About

Dracocephalum ruyschianum is a species in the genus Dracocephalum, commonly called Dragon's Head. It is a flowering plant that produces blooms from July to September. Gardeners typically value it for its summer flowering period and for use where midsummer interest is required.

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

Dracocephalum ruyschianum, known as Dragon's Head, is a member of the genus Dracocephalum and flowers between July and September. Its midsummer to early autumn display makes it a useful plant for filling that seasonal gap in the garden. When purchasing, check the nursery label or supplier notes for the specific provenance or cultivar details, since requirements can vary between different species and selections within the genus. For practical care, follow the supplier’s guidance on soil and aspect and treat the plant like other summer-flowering herbaceous species: position where the flowers will be visible and remove spent blooms to tidy the display and extend flowering. Note any particular cultivar instructions for winter protection or pot culture before committing to a site. Use Dragon's Head to bridge the transition from high summer into early autumn by pairing it with earlier and later-flowering plants to maintain continuous interest. It can also be considered for containers if the label indicates container suitability; observe its July–September flowering window when planning companion plants or cutting schedules to get the best use from its bloom period.

More in the Dracocephalum genus

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  Dracocephalumdragon head
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  Dracocephalum forrestiiDragon's Head
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  Dracocephalum grandiflorumbetony-leaved dragonhead
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  Dracocephalum imberbe
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  Dracocephalum isabellaeDragon's Head
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  Dracocephalum moldavicaMoldavian balm
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  Dracocephalum nutans
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  Dracocephalum tanguticumDragon's Head