Piloblephis
Piloblephis rigida is a species of flowering plant in the mint family and the only species in the monotypic genus Piloblephis. It is native to the southeastern United States and the northern Bahamas. This aromatic perennial shrub produces small spike-like inflorescences of tubular flowers that attract native pollinators and is adapted to dry, open habitats such as scrub and sandhills.
Description
Piloblephis rigida is a low-growing, aromatic perennial shrub typically reaching about 30–70 cm tall with a similar spread. The plant has opposite, narrow leaves with revolute margins, and it produces small, two-lipped tubular flowers arranged in tight, terminal clusters. Flowers are usually lilac to lavender with darker markings; the foliage and stems are often fragrant like true pennyroyal when crushed. Blooming may occur from late winter through spring, and occasionally year-round in frost-free areas.
Distribution and habitat
Piloblephis rigida is native to the southeastern United States, including the Florida peninsula and portions of southern Georgia, as well as the northern Bahamas. It typically inhabits well-drained, sandy soils, including scrubby pine flatwoods, longleaf pine sandhills, dry oak scrub, pine rocklands, and coastal scrub. The species is adapted to periodic fire regimes that characterize these habitats, and is often found in open or semi-open sites with plenty of sunlight.
Ecology
Piloblephis rigida produces nectar-rich flowers that attract a variety of insect pollinators, particularly in late winter and early spring when few other nectar sources are available in its range. Its aromatic foliage may deter some herbivores, a common trait in the mint family. The plant is drought-tolerant once established and contributes to the floral diversity of xeric plant communities.
Uses
While not widely cultivated outside its native range, Piloblephis rigida is sometimes used in native landscaping and xeriscaping for groundcover or pollinator gardens due to its hardiness, light requirements, and extended bloom period in mild climates. Cultivation generally requires well-drained, sandy soils and full sun.