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Stachytarpheta jamaicensis, commonly known as Blue Flower, is a low-growing woody perennial herb reaching 1-3 feet (1 m) tall.
Growth Form
Spreading, slightly upright habit
Slender stems
Forms low patches or clusters
Often grows along the ground before rising at flowering tips
Leaves
Opposite arrangement
Oval to slightly elongated
2-6 inches long
Serrated margins
Dark green
Leaves may appear slightly wrinkled or textured.
Flowers
Small, tubular
Deep blue to purple
Arranged along long, slender spikes
Bloom sequentially along the spike
Flowering can occur nearly year-round in warm climates
Each tiny bloom opens briefly, but the spike continues producing new flowers over time.
Fruit
Small capsule
Inconspicuous
Produces tiny seeds
Habitat
Stachytarpheta jamaicensis grows in Human Altered environments, salt flats, ephemeral Fresh Water Wetlands, savannahs, and the edges of Dry Broadleaf Evergreen Formations (coppice).
Distribution
Stachytarpheta jamaicensis grows throughout all the islands of the Lucayan Archipelago as well as the southern United States, the Caribbean, Mexico, Central and South America. It has spread throughout the world in sub tropical and tropical areas.
Ecological Importance
Important nectar source for butterflies and bees
Supports pollinator populations
Cultural Notes
Stachytarpheta jamaicensis is used in the Lucayan Archipelago to treat issues of circulation (high blood pressure), the gastrointestinal tract (worms, constipation), the respiratory system, blisters/boils, chills, and fevers. Often mistaken for ornamental red porterweed (non-native).