The Story
Plant Bio
Spigelia alabamensis, commonly known as Alabama Pinkroot, is a perennial herbaceous plant with slender stems, lance-shaped green leaves, and tubular, reddish-pink flowers that attract hummingbirds.
This species is valued for its striking, tubular flowers and its ability to thrive in well-drained, sandy soils, making it an attractive choice for native plant gardens and pollinator habitats.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
12 inches
Width
8 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
6, 7, 8
Water
Consistently moist
Humidity
Prefers moderate to high humidity
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Southern United States
Toxicity
Poisonous if ingested; contains toxic alkaloids
Bloom period
Late spring – Late summer
In flower about 4 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
- Plant in partial shade with acidic, well-drained soil.
- Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Mulch around base to conserve moisture.
- Divide plants every 2-3 years in early spring.
Pro Tip
Ensure soil remains consistently moist and acidic for best growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
- Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape
Don't
- Avoid dry or overly alkaline soils ❌
- Do not let soil stay waterlogged ❌
- Refrain from heavy fertilization
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Alabama Pinkroot questions
What zones can Alabama Pinkroot grow in?
Alabama Pinkroot is hardy in USDA Zones 6–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Alabama Pinkroot deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Alabama Pinkroot, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Alabama Pinkroot bloom?
Alabama Pinkroot typically blooms in late spring through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Alabama Pinkroot need full sun?
Alabama Pinkroot does best in part shade.
More Spigelia to compare
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Alabama Pinkroot with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.