Sun or part shade. Crucita is a sprawling perennial, with a woody base, soft stems and pale purple mistflowers. It is one of the very best plants for the native butterfly garden in autumn.
Some of its common names provide a hint: Crucita’s airy seeds disperse over long distances, so it tends to travel and start its own gardens unless firmly contained. It’s native to South Texas, mostly below San Antonio — but in other parts of the world it is considered invasive.