probably "obedient plant," also known as false dragonhead. physostegia virginiana comes in white, pink or that vivid purple. it can be invasive in damp ground -- but is sometimes recommended as alternative for the marsh-destroying purple loosestrife.

Well, I have a few different kinds of purple salvias blooming now. Maybe a type of salvia?

Not looking up spelling, but how about Liatris. I have seen a wild sort growing native here in South Jersey and I think that one might still be blooming with the goldenrod and wild fall asters. It only gets about 18" tall or less here. Quite common. So, maybe garden sorts are still in bloom.

It is obedient plant, thank you!! I've heard a few horror stories about it, but didn't know it's so pretty at a time of year when little else is blooming, nor that it is so attractive to hummingbirds. I believe I may try some in a sunken pot or something. Unless someone can talk me out of it.

/c.

Are they blooming now? It seems a little late for obedient's to be blooming this late; mine had stopped probably a month ago, or more. They're alright; nothing spectacular, in my book. They are invasive, but very easy to remove whatever you don't want. I like them because they're right behind my caryopteris, which bloom together, so the bumblebees really do enjoy both. I haven't seen my hummers use the obedient.