Scrophularia nodosa
common figwort
An herbaceous perennial with green, sometimes bronzy, leaves and bronze stems. Tiny, hooded, brown and green flowers are produced in whorls on stout, square stems in summer and early autumn, followed by light brown seed capsules
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Poorly–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Bronze | Brown Green | Green | |
| Autumn | Bronze | Brown Green | Green | Brown |
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or North–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Scrophulariaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Genus
Scrophularia can be herbaceous perennials or sub-shrubs, with broad leaves in pairs on square stems, and small 2-lipped flowers in loose terminal clusters
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Temp. N. Hemisphere
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in moist soil in sun or partial shade
Propagation
Propagate by seed, or by division in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildlife gardens
- Low Maintenance
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Cut back after flowering unless seedheads are required
Pests
May be susceptible to damage by slugs, caterpillars and Figwort Weevil
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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