Common Figwort
Scrophularia nodosa
Also listed as Scrophularia capitata, Scrophularia cechica
Also known as Figwort, Knotted Figwort, Knotty Figwort
Climate Match for your location
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A tall, upright perennial with distinctive nodose (knobbly) stems and small maroon-brown flowers arranged in terminal spikes. It thrives in shady, moist woodland settings and self-seeds readily.
Why grow it
Common figwort offers reliable ground coverage and vertical structure in shade where many ornamentals struggle, particularly in damp woodland gardens or rain gardens. Unlike some figworts, this species is hardy across temperate zones and establishes readily from seed, making it a practical choice for restoring native plant communities or filling difficult moist-shade niches without requiring special propagation.
Watch out for
The plant spreads vigorously through self-seeding in favorable conditions, so deadheading spent flower spikes before seed maturation helps prevent unintended spread into nearby plantings. In very wet soils with poor drainage, it may develop fungal issues; ensuring adequate air circulation around the base supports healthier growth.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Scrophulariaceae
Native Range
European
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Herb
Soft non-woody plants of the field layer.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A tall, upright perennial with distinctive nodose (knobbly) stems and small maroon-brown flowers arranged in terminal spikes. It thrives in shady, moist woodland settings and self-seeds readily.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Common Figwort grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Common figwort offers reliable ground coverage and vertical structure in shade where many ornamentals struggle, particularly in damp woodland gardens or rain gardens. Unlike some figworts, this species is hardy across temperate zones and establishes readily from seed, making it a practical choice for restoring native plant communities or filling difficult moist-shade niches without requiring special propagation.
Watch out for
The plant spreads vigorously through self-seeding in favorable conditions, so deadheading spent flower spikes before seed maturation helps prevent unintended spread into nearby plantings. In very wet soils with poor drainage, it may develop fungal issues; ensuring adequate air circulation around the base supports healthier growth.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Scrophulariaceae
Native Range
European
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Herb
Soft non-woody plants of the field layer.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
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