Glandularia canadensis (Rose Vervain)

Native to the central and eastern United States, this low perennial herb or subshrub forms spreading patches with reclining stems and ascending flowering branches. Opposite leaves have toothed edges and are often deeply divided into broad lobes. Rounded flower clusters develop at the branch tips. Rose-pink to purple flowers have slender tubes and five spreading lobes, each conspicuously notched at its tip. The plant grows in open, dry habitats, including prairies, glades, barrens and sandy ground. Butterflies and other pollinators feed on its nectar. It is cultivated as a ground cover, tolerates drought and salt, and has been introduced to Germany. Photographed in Colombia.