Educational Story
Forked Bluecurls, Trichostema dichotomum, is a low-growing, annual herb in the mint family (Lamiaceae). It has brilliantly iridescent blue or purplish flowers that have dramatic long stamens and styles curling out over the two-lipped petals. The fragrant flowers attract pollinators and are an important food source, especially for bees. Found throughout Florida and along the eastern United States north into Canada, it is a short lived perennial in Florida. Often occurring as delicate plants in dry open sandy areas, it does well in cultivation and can spread profusely in a garden setting.
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Gardening Facts
| Scientific Name: | Trichostema dichotomum |
| Common Name: | Blue Curls |
| Description of facts and concepts: | Short-lived perennial herb with striking blue flowers. |
| Seed or division information: | Propagates easily from seed. |
| Date of flower’s bloom (Month and week): | August – September |
| Ecoregion: | Dry pinelands and thickets |
| Color of Flower: | Blue-violet |
| Height: | Up to 32 inches |
| Spread: | 1-2 feet |
| Family: | Lamiaceae (mint) |
| Soil Type: Base to Acidic | Acidic |
| Soil: Dry to Wet | Dry; Well-drained |
| Light: Sun to Shade | Part Shade/Sun |
| Zone | 5B-11B |