Massachusetts gardeners have a special opportunity to cultivate this locally endangered wildflower in their home landscapes. The brilliant blue flower towers create irresistible landing pads for hummingbirds and sphinx moths. An excellent choice for naturalistic plantings in partially shaded, moisture-retentive areas.

Native range: Eastern and central North America, from Maine to Manitoba and south from North Carolina to Texas, with sparse populations as far west as Wyoming and Colorado

Size: 3 feet tall, space 12 inches apart

Growing conditions: Full to partial sun, wet to average soil

Bloom period: July through October

Wildlife value: Attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, and native bees; larval host for 6 species of butterflies and moths

Garden benefits: Tolerates many soil types, cut flower, attracts pollinators including hummingbirds