There are 6 perianth segments the outer
3 have a bulbous nectary at the base. Flowers
are pale lilac, liberally covered with dark
purple spots. Six stamens and 3 styles form a
central crown that stands above the bell-shaped
perianth. The flower structure is one of the
most unique in the perennials.
Late summer to
early
fall.
The leaves are
alternate, 3-4 inches long and ovate to ovate-lanceolate. Leaves have
parallel venation and clasp the stem. The stems
and leaves are softly pubescent.
var. alba - White flowers and pink stamens.
'Miyazaki' - Hybrid of T. hirta x
T. formosana has 2 feet tall arching stems with
purple-blotched flowers found in axillary
positions on the stem.
'Variegata' - Leaves are narrowly edged
creamy-yellow.
