About
Scrophularia nodosa, the common figwort, is a herbaceous perennial with green, sometimes bronzy, leaves and bronze, square stems. Tiny, hooded, brown-and-green flowers in whorls on square stems in summer and early autumn are followed by light-brown seed capsules. An ornamental and rewarding native plant for a shaded, moist border or woodland garden.
About the genus
Scrophularia, the figworts, are herbaceous perennials and subshrubs with broad leaves in pairs on square stems and small, two-lipped flowers in loose terminal clusters in summer. Native to a wide range of habitats from dry scrub to pondside.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Poorly-drained
AspectSouth-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial, Bogs
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toTemp. N. Hemisphere
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moist soil in sun or partial shade
PruningCut back after flowering unless seedheads are required
PropagationPropagate by seed, or by division in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to damage by slugs, caterpillars and Figwort Weevil
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free