Downy pagoda plant (Blephilia ciliata)

Downy pagoda plant

Downy pagoda plant (Blephilia ciliata) is a member of the mint family indigenous to the eastern part of North America. The genus name, Blephilia, means "eyelash," and was so given for the appearance of the flower's hairlike bracts. Though it lives in some relatively cold areas, the downy pagoda plant's basal leaves remain green all year.

Scientific classification

Species

Downy pagoda plant (Blephilia ciliata)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Harvest Time

30 cm to 76 cm

Plant Height

20 cm to 45 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

White, Pink, Purple, Lavender

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Downy pagoda plant

Quickly Identify Downy pagoda plant

Linear, serrated leaves emit a refreshing aroma when crushed.

Dense clusters of blue-purple tubular flowers with distinctive hair-fringed bracts.

Dry nutlet fruit less than 1/8 inch (3 mm) in diameter.

Stem is stout, unbranched, 4-angled, with short white hairs.

Leaves are broadly oblong to lanceolate, covered in white pubescence.

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Care Guide for Downy pagoda plant

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Downy pagoda plant thrives in moderate humidity, requiring consistent soil moisture without waterlogging. Weekly watering helps maintain optimal hydration. Typically grown outdoors, it benefits from mulching to retain moisture, making it ideal for temperate climates with predictable rainfall.

Fertilize: For downy pagoda plant, use balanced nutrition fertilizer for healthy growth and high-phosphorus options for blooms. Fertilize bi-monthly during growth at 1/4 strength, ensuring moist soil. Avoid winter fertilization and reduce quantity as downy pagoda plant matures. Wear gloves and prevent over-fertilization to protect foliage.

Pruning: Downy pagoda plant features hairy foliage and tiered flowers, responding well to early spring pruning. Key methods include removing spent blooms and trimming leggy growth to enhance shape and vigor. Proper pruning fosters density, health, and air circulation while aligning with downy pagoda plant's growth cycle.

Propagation: Downy pagoda plant is best propagated through division, ensuring each section has a healthy root system. This cloning method retains the parent’s characteristics. Care should be taken to avoid root damage and use clean tools. Prompt planting and adequate moisture are essential for establishment.

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