Herbaceous, perennial native to eastern and central North America. Grows up to 1 meter tall, producing a flower spike of rich beautiful blue flowers in the late summer. Prefers consistently moist to wet rich soils with part shade to full sun. Suitable for marshy areas and water gardens. Used by First Nations, togethet with Mayapple (Podophyllum peltatum) to treat venereal disease hence the Latin 'siphilitica'. The Meskwaki used the finely-chopped roots, shared and eaten by a couple, to reconcile and renew love. Short-lived seed and light-dependent germinator. Best to stratify seed if sowing indoors.