Etymology: Trichostema: from trichos, "hair," and stema, "stamens," and alluding to the hair-like stamens
Plants: erect, annual, 8"-16" tall, aromatic forb, finely hairy; stems square with many branches
Leaves: opposite, short-stalked, elliptical to lance-shaped
Flowers: blue, 5-parted, 1/4" long, bell-like, almost regular, lower lip long and curved downward; inflorescence 1 to 3 flowers from the leaf axils; blooms Aug.-Sept.
Fruits: 1-seeded nutlet
Habitat: dry; prairies, barrens
Conservation Status: Native

Floristic Rating: Coefficient of Conservatism = 8 USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos Dan Tenaglia's The Missouri Flora: Fabulous photographs; detailed descriptions; color and leave arrangement key.