Scrophularia auriculata ‘Variegata’     Family: Scrophulariaceae
(skroff-yu-LAIR-ee-ah)
syn: Scrophularia aquatica ‘Variegata’; Scrophularia nodosa ‘Variegata’
Common name: variegated figwort; shoreline figwort; water betony
Zone: 5 – 9
Height: 6 ft (1.8 m)   Spread: 3 ft (0.9 m)
Aspect: sun; partial shade
Soil: average; poorly-drained
Water: moderate     

Description: A slow-spreading, clumping-forming perennial. Ovoid green leaves with serrated edges are thickly margined in creamy-white and paired opposite on strong square, green stems. Clusters of tiny, maroon-red flowers appear in summer through into autumn and are a huge attraction to assorted bee species and hummingbirds.

Special Notes: In Zone 6 and colder, this plant is herbaceous; in Zone 8 and warmer, it is evergreen year-round. Given the right growing conditions, loamy-rich soil and regular water, this plant can grow to be a sub-shrub. But is also quite drought tolerant once established. Propagate by division in spring or fall.

In our Zone 7a garden: We have found Scrophularia auriculata ‘Variegata’ to be a wonderful, fuss-free addition to our garden. We especially love the tiny flowers because they attract a variety of bee species, as well as hummingbirds.

Depending on the severity of our winter weather, Scrophularia can be herbaceous or evergreen.

Posted on February 12, 2023