How to Grow Blue Witches Hat

 

The Blue witches’ hat plants which is also known as Pycnostachys urticifolia are native to regions of South Africa where they are often found near wetlands and along the banks of waterways. In warm weather regions the Blue witches’ hat plants will begin to bloom in the fall. Those in growing zones outside of USDA hardiness zones nine and ten, which experience frost, may be disappointed to learn that the plant cannot survive cold conditions. Its former plant name referred to its dense spiked flowerheads and nettle-like leaves. In the United State the plants are commonly known as blue witches’ hat for its cobalt blue flowers shaped like a witch hat. Forming a short, mounded shrub at maturity, its overall shape makes blue witches’ hat a good option for use as a background plant in the flower garden border. The Blue witches’ hat plants has strong fragrance and bright, showy flowers, and the plants are also known to be especially attractive to bees.

 

Growing Blue Witches Hat Plant

For those wishing to add the Blue witches’ hat plants to their flower gardens, the first step will be to locate it. While transplants are available for purchase online through specialty plant nurseries, gardeners also have the option of growing the Blue witches’ hat plants from seed. The selection of the planting site will be of the utmost importance to those growing blue witches’ hat plant. In the garden, well-drained soil and direct sunlight is very important. Those living in cooler regions also have the option of growing blue witches’ hat plants, although as a houseplant. In doing so, the indoor temperatures should remain consistently warm. Place the Blue witches’ hat plants in a bright location, such as a south-facing window. Providing the Blue witches’ hat plants with ample sunlight will help ensure the best chance of wintertime bloom when grown indoors. Care for the Blue witches’ hat plants does involve a few routine tasks. Among these will be pruning and regular watering of the plant. Under the right conditions the Blue witches’ hat plants will grow quickly. Pruning the plant can be done in late summer before the plant blooms or after flowering has ceased. Removing unwanted growth during these periods will help keep the plant neat and compact. The Blue witches’ hat plants should be watered thoroughly as needed. Before watering, make sure you allow the top layer of the soil to become dry, as to avoid issues which may occur with waterlogged soils.