Any reference to medicinal or culinary use of plants or plant parts should in no way be considered an endorsement by The Ocala Food Forest or its staff. Research is crucial in safe and proper consumption or experimentational use of any plant.

Plant Information

Scientific Name: Dyschoriste oblongifolia
Family Name: Acanthaceae (Acanthus family)
Common Name(s): Dry Twinflower, Oblongleaf Snakeherb
Size: Typically grows 1 to 2 feet tall and spreads 2 to 3 feet wide.
Plant Type: Perennial herb
Origin/Geographic Distribution: Native to the southeastern United States, particularly Florida.
Native to: Florida, Georgia, and surrounding areas.
Planted range in the USA: Commonly found in natural and landscaped areas throughout Florida and parts of the Southeast.
Conservation Status: Not listed as threatened or endangered.

Cultivation

Planting: Best planted in early spring to establish before the hot summer.
Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
Soil Type: Well-drained, sandy soil, tolerant of a variety of soil types.
Soil pH: 5.5 to 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Water Requirements: Drought tolerant once established, requires moderate watering.
Fertilizer Requirements: Low; a light application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season can be beneficial.

Blog post on Natural Fertilizers
Pruning Requirements: Minimal; trim back as needed to control spread and encourage denser growth.
Growth Rate: Medium to fast, quickly filling in spaces within a garden setting.
Companion Planting: Complements native grasses and wildflowers; good for naturalistic landscapes.

Tolerance and Hardiness

Drought Tolerance: High; well-adapted to dry conditions.
Frost Tolerance: Moderate; can handle brief frosts down to about 20°F (-6°C)
Heat Tolerance: Excellent; can thrive in temperatures up to about 100°F (38°C)
Wind Tolerance: Moderate
Salt Tolerance: Moderate; can be used in coastal areas where salt spray is not direct.
USDA Plant Hardiness Zones: 8a-11

Flower and Fruit Information

Fruit Type: Small capsule
Harvest Time: Not typically harvested; fruit matures in late summer to fall.
Fruit Description: Small, not typically noticeable against the foliage.
Edible Plant: No, not known for edible uses.
Edible Parts: None
Medicinal: Not commonly used medicinally.
Flower Color: Purple to lavender
Flower Shape: Small, bilaterally symmetrical
Fragrance: Mildly fragrant, attracting pollinators
Flower Bloom Time: Spring through early summer
Bloom Duration: Several weeks, providing a long-lasting display.
Pollination:
Self or Other?
Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Wildlife

Attracts: Attracts a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies.
Pollinators: Bees and butterflies are key pollinators for Dyschoriste oblongifolia.
Problematic Pest: Generally pest-resistant; occasionally may attract aphids.

Blog post on how to control pest

Health and Safety

Toxic: No, Dyschoriste oblongifolia is not toxic and is safe around children and pets.
Poisonous Parts of Plant: None
Toxic to Humans: Not toxic
Toxic to Animals: Non-toxic; safe for pets and wildlife
Plant Diseases to be aware of: Diseases include Powdery Mildew, Root Rot, & Downy Mildew.

Dry Twinflower (Dyschoriste Oblongifolia)

Imagine a delightful addition to your garden that not only captivates with its charming blooms but also invites a lively buzz of nature's workers. The Twinflower, a perennial favorite among garden enthusiasts, stands out with its vibrant flowers that paint your garden in vivid hues. This plant brings more than just aesthetics; it's a magnet for beneficial insects and wildlife, enhancing the biodiversity of your outdoor space.

As you stroll through your garden, you'll notice how the Twinflower's bright blossoms add depth and character to your landscape. The way these flowers gracefully fill any empty spots is truly a sight to behold, creating a seamless and lush garden tapestry. Each bloom not only beautifies the garden but also plays a pivotal role in attracting pollinators, turning your garden into a sanctuary for bees, butterflies, and birds. The Twinflower is more than just a plant; it's a lively, colorful invitation to the wonders of the natural world, perfect for anyone looking to add a touch of wild beauty to their home environment.

Companion Planting

For Dyschoriste oblongifolia (Dry Twinflower), carefully selecting companion plants can significantly enhance the visual appeal and ecological function of your garden. Here's a detailed guide to companion planting for Dry Twinflower:

Florida Native Plants:

  1. Sabal palmetto (Cabbage Palm)

    • Zone Range: 8-11

    • Benefits: Provides vertical structure and shade, allowing Twinflower to thrive under its canopy.

    • Use: Ideal for creating a layered landscape with Twinflower planted around the base.

  2. Gaillardia pulchella (Blanket Flower)

    • Zone Range: 8-11

    • Benefits: Offers striking color contrast with Twinflower and attracts a variety of pollinators.

    • Use: Plant in front of or alongside Twinflower for a vibrant, low-growing floral display.

  3. Rudbeckia hirta (Black-eyed Susan)

    • Zone Range: 3-10

    • Benefits: Its bright yellow blooms provide a striking contrast to the lavender flowers of Twinflower and attract additional pollinators.

    • Use: Excellent for borders or mass plantings where both species can spread.

  4. Coreopsis lanceolata (Lanceleaf Coreopsis)

    • Zone Range: 4-9

    • Benefits: Adds a splash of color with its golden blooms and supports a healthy pollinator presence.

    • Use: Suitable for creating a colorful, textural contrast alongside Twinflower.

  5. Muhlenbergia capillaris (Pink Muhly Grass)

    • Zone Range: 6-11

    • Benefits: The fine texture and pink blooms in the fall provide a stunning backdrop for the low-growing Twinflower.

    • Use: Plant behind or around Twinflower to enhance autumn interest in the garden.

  6. Eryngium yuccifolium (Rattlesnake Master)

    • Zone Range: 5-9

    • Benefits: Unique textural plant that adds architectural interest and attracts beneficial insects.

    • Use: Works well in mixed perennial borders with Twinflower to create varied height and texture.

Florida Friendly Plants:

  1. Lantana camara (Lantana)

    • Zone Range: 8-11

    • Benefits: Drought-resistant and blooms prolifically, attracting butterflies and other pollinators which benefit the Twinflower.

    • Use: Plant in front of or alongside Twinflower for continuous color and interest.

  2. Salvia coccinea (Scarlet Sage)

    • Zone Range: 8-10

    • Benefits: Offers a striking color contrast with long-lasting red flowers that attract hummingbirds and butterflies.

    • Use: Ideal for interspersing with Twinflower in a cottage garden setting to attract more pollinators.

  3. Verbena bonariensis (Tall Verbena)

    • Zone Range: 7-11

    • Benefits: Provides height and delicate purple flowers that complement the more robust foliage of Twinflower.

    • Use: Plant behind Twinflower for a layered effect in borders or butterfly gardens.

  4. Stachytarpheta jamaicensis (Blue Porterweed)

    • Zone Range: 9-11

    • Benefits: Continuous bloomer that attracts butterflies and hummingbirds, enhancing the ecological diversity around Twinflower.

    • Use: Excellent for edges or as a filler in beds where Twinflower is featured.

Implementation Tips

  • Light Requirements: Ensure that all companion plants thrive under similar light conditions to Twinflower for uniform growth.

  • Watering and Soil Needs: Group plants with similar water and soil preferences to promote health and reduce maintenance.

  • Aesthetic Considerations: Choose plants with varying heights, textures, and bloom times to create a dynamic and visually engaging garden.

This selection of companion plants not only boosts the visual appeal of your garden but also supports a healthy ecosystem, making your gardening experience both enjoyable and beneficial.