Stachytarpheta jamaicensis
Family: Verbenaceae
Plant Description: Sprawling or decumbent shrub, 0.6–1.2 m tall depending on region. Green to purplish, often quadrangular, sometimes slightly pubescent. Leaves opposite, ovate to oblong‑elliptic, 2–9 cm long, coarsely serrated margins. Flowers are tubular blue‑violet to purple, borne on long terminal spikes (10–50 cm).
Field Identification:
Plant Trivia:
Occurrence: Found in coastal dunes, roadsides, and disturbed habitats. Native to Central America and Caribbean Islands and naturalize to many tropical and semitropical areas.
Bloom Period: May-October
Plant Use: Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds, serving as a nectar source and host plant for several species. Functions as a ruderal species in disturbed areas and may form dense stands. Medicinally leaves used in traditional teas for cooling tonics and stomach ailments; studies show blood pressure lowering effects but also mild systemic toxicity in animals.
Key to Genera if needed:
stxflora 