Blephilia ciliata, commonly known as Downy Wood Mint, is a native perennial plant found in woodlands, shaded meadows, and along woodland edges throughout Illinois. It thrives in moist, well-drained soils and prefers full sun to partial shade.
This plant features opposite, ovate to lance-shaped leaves with a slightly hairy texture, and its stems are square, typical of the mint family. In late spring to early summer, Blephilia ciliata produces clusters of tubular, pale purple to blue flowers with fringed edges. These flowers are attractive to a variety of pollinators, particularly bees. The plant typically grows to a height of 1 to 2 feet.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Blephilia ciliata is an excellent choice for woodland gardens, shaded landscapes, or naturalized areas with moist, rich soils. Its attractive flowers and low-maintenance nature make it a good option for gardeners looking to add color and texture to shaded areas while supporting pollinators. It also provides seasonal interest and works well as a part of native wildflower or ground cover plantings.
Blephilia ciliata, commonly known as Downy Wood Mint, is a native perennial plant found in woodlands, shaded meadows, and along woodland edges throughout Illinois. It thrives in moist, well-drained soils and prefers full sun to partial shade.
This plant features opposite, ovate to lance-shaped leaves with a slightly hairy texture, and its stems are square, typical of the mint family. In late spring to early summer, Blephilia ciliata produces clusters of tubular, pale purple to blue flowers with fringed edges. These flowers are attractive to a variety of pollinators, particularly bees. The plant typically grows to a height of 1 to 2 feet.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Blephilia ciliata is an excellent choice for woodland gardens, shaded landscapes, or naturalized areas with moist, rich soils. Its attractive flowers and low-maintenance nature make it a good option for gardeners looking to add color and texture to shaded areas while supporting pollinators. It also provides seasonal interest and works well as a part of native wildflower or ground cover plantings.
Bloom: early summer
Habitats: dolomite prairies; limestone bluffs; limestone glades; mesic to dry black soil prairies; savannas; thickets
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: mesic to dry
Plant type (height): forb (1 to 2 feet)
Requirements: full sun to partial sun
Soil: clay; gravel; loam
