Blue Porterweed
Stachytarpheta jamaicensis
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
24 inches
Width
30 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
9
Water
Moderate, drought-tolerant once established
Humidity
Prefers moderate humidity
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Southeastern US, Caribbean, Central America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Stachytarpheta jamaicensis, commonly known as Blue Porterweed, is a perennial shrub with arching stems, lance-shaped green leaves, and vibrant spikes of blue flowers that attract pollinators. This species is appreciated for its long-lasting, brightly colored flower spikes and its ability to thrive in warm, sunny environments with well-drained soil.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in spring.
- Water regularly until established.
- Provide full sun for optimal flowering.
- Fertilize monthly during growing season.
- Pinch back to encourage bushier growth.
- Mulch around base to retain moisture.
Pro Tip
Ensure well-drained soil and full sun for best blooms.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
- Prune back after flowering to promote new growth
- Apply balanced fertilizer monthly
Don't
- Overwater to prevent root rot ❌
- Avoid heavy shade which reduces flowering
- Don't forget to deadhead spent flowers
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Blue Porterweed questions
What zones can Blue Porterweed grow in?
Blue Porterweed is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Blue Porterweed deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Blue Porterweed, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Blue Porterweed bloom?
Blue Porterweed typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Blue Porterweed need full sun?
Blue Porterweed does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Blue Porterweed drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Blue Porterweed handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
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Grow Blue Porterweed 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.
