Agalinis purpurea aka Purple False Foxglove

Agalinis purpurea is an annual known as purple false foxglove. It belongs to the Orobanchaceae family. Its native range spans southern Canada and the central and eastern United States. It also includes southeastern Mexico, Cuba, and the Cayman Islands. In the wild, it grows in damp woods and prairies. It also grows near bogs and lakes. This plant completes its life cycle in one year.

Plants reach 1–4 feet [0.30–1.22 metres] tall. They spread about 1 foot [0.30 metres]. Listed widths range from 0.67–1.5 feet [0.20–0.46 metres]. Growth proceeds at a medium rate. The dark green stems stand upright and have grooves and angles. They lack hairs but may feel slightly rough. The simple leaves grow in opposite pairs. Each narrow, linear leaf has smooth edges and a clear midrib. Leaves measure 0.08–0.25 feet [0.025–0.076 metres] long. Their dark green upper surface may feel rough or look purple.

Flowers appear from August to October, bringing colour into fall. Each flower grows alone on a short stalk. The pink or purple tubes open into five spreading lobes. The upper pair tends to be smaller than the lower three. Those lower lobes curve upward. Purple spots mark the pale throat, and fine hairs edge the flower. The stamens and style are white. Five joined sepals form a calyx with pointed teeth. Bees visit the blooms. Round capsules follow the flowers and turn brown as they mature. From September to November, their tops split and release many tiny seeds. Wind carries the seeds, and plants can seed themselves in gardens.

Grow purple false foxglove in sun or light shade. It favours acidic soil that stays moist to wet but drains well. Sandy or peaty ground suits it. The source also lists loam, neutral soil, and occasional dry conditions. These tolerances do not replace its preference for a moist site. Seed is the recommended way to raise new plants. The plant needs little routine upkeep. The supplied sources give no hardiness-zone rating.

Use it in native plant borders, woodland gardens, or naturalized areas. Small groups suit pond edges, stream banks, and sites near bogs. Its late flowers add colour and draw visiting bees. NC State lists no major pest, disease, or other plant problems. The supplied evidence does not establish edible uses or safety for people and pets.