Lanceleaf Figwort
ExplorePlants
Lanceleaf Figwort
scrophularia lanceolata
The Lanceleaf Figwort (Scrophularia lanceolata) is an intriguing native perennial herb of North America, prized by wildlife and native plant enthusiasts alike. Reaching heights of up to 2.5 meters, this tall, upright wildflower features a distinctive square stem and opposite, sharply toothed leaves. While its tiny, cup-shaped flowers might seem inconspicuous to the casual passerby, they are absolute powerhouses of nectar production, acting as a vital fuel station for a diverse array of insects, particularly predatory wasps. Historically valued in traditional herbal medicine, this species thrives in transitional habitats like forest edges and open meadows. It plays an essential role in local ecosystems by supporting beneficial predatory insects that control pest populations.
Habitat: Typically found in open woodlands, forest edges, thickets, fields, and along disturbed roadsides.
Appearance
This tall, erect perennial stands 100 to 250 cm high, featuring sharply four-angled, grooved square stems. Its leaves are oppositely arranged, lance-shaped, and display prominent, sharp, double-toothed margins. The flowering structure is a narrow, elongated panicle covered in small, 1-cm long, urn-shaped flowers that are greenish-brown or dull red in color.
KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassMagnoliopsidaOrderLamialesFamilyScrophulariaceaeGenusScrophularia
Category
PlantsRarity
Common
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Snaps
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Interesting facts
Its scientific name Scrophularia refers to its traditional use in treating scrofula, a historical form of tuberculosis affecting the neck.
The name Figwort originates from the historical belief that the plant could heal a medical condition known as 'figs' (hemorrhoids).
Unlike most garden flowers that court bees, this species has evolved a strong evolutionary relationship with predatory wasps.
Special abilities
Ability
Wasp-Attracting Nectar
Produces abundant, easily accessible sucrose-rich nectar tailored specifically to attract and reward predatory wasps for pollination.
Ability
Square-Stem Support
Possesses a rigid, four-angled stem reinforced with collenchyma tissues that allow the plant to stand tall without wood.
Ability
Chemical Herbivore Defense
Synthesizes bitter iridoid glycosides throughout its foliage to deter grazing mammals and generalist insect pests.
Measurements & details
- Length
- 100-250 cm
- Lifespan
- 3-10 years
Diet & Feeding
As a photosynthetic plant, it converts sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide into sugars while absorbing essential soil nutrients.
Age differences: Seedlings initially rely on endosperm reserves before developing chlorophyll to begin active photosynthesis.
Primary Foods
- Sunlight
- Carbon dioxide
- Water
- Soil minerals
Foraging Method
- Photosynthesis
Ecological connections
mutualism
Bald-faced Hornet
Dolichovespula maculata
Feeds heavily on the nectar, acting as one of the plant's primary pollinating agents.
host plant
Baltimore Checkerspot
Euphrydyas phaeton
Utilizes the leaves as a critical host food source for its developing larvae.
mutualism
Ruby-throated Hummingbird
Archilochus colubris
Visits the small cup-like flowers during migration to feed on the sugary nectar.
Traits
No trait badges are assigned for this object yet.
Also known as
No aliases listed yet.
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Safety
Danger
1/5 · Very low
No special safety notes yet.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to identify Lanceleaf Figwort?
The easiest way to identify Lanceleaf Figwort is to use the Snappit nature identifier app.
How long is Lanceleaf Figwort?
100-250 cm
How long does Lanceleaf Figwort live?
3-10 years
What does Lanceleaf Figwort eat?
As a photosynthetic plant, it converts sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide into sugars while absorbing essential soil nutrients.
Where is Lanceleaf Figwort usually found?
Typically found in open woodlands, forest edges, thickets, fields, and along disturbed roadsides.
How does Lanceleaf Figwort hunt?
Photosynthesis
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