Salvia lyrata

Recorded in all 100 NC counties, this long-lived perennial is one of the most common across the entire state! Despite its prevalence, no other species resembles this one, in leaf or flower, and it can be seen daily, often many times a day. Each basal leaf is lobed like a lyre, hence the species name. Distinctive leaves also have purplish-red patches along their midribs, making it an attractive ground cover. Lavender tubular flowers occur in rings around the stem in mid-spring, attracting butterflies. This dense form and short height make it an excellent lawn alternative, it even takes mowing and can be walked on. It is typically found in sandy soils of open woods, wet to dry meadows, and clearings, but will grow just about anywhere. American goldfinches will visit them for the seeds in the autumn.  Lyreleaf Sage is moderately resistant to browsing by deer (they tend to eat the erect flower stalks but not the basal leaves). It will reseed easily, making it the plant that just keeps giving! Once established, it is very tolerant of heat, humidity, drought and even flooding and overwatering.