Chelone glabra (White Turtlehead)

Chelone glabra (White Turtlehead) is an erect, clump-forming perennial with showy, dense terminal spikes of two-lipped, white or pink-tinged flowers from late summer into fall. Blooming for 3-4 weeks, the hooded flowers are shaped like turtle heads just emerging from the shell, hence the common name. Attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds, they rise above a bushy mound of dark green foliage that remains handsome all season long. The coarsely-toothed, lance-shaped leaves, 8 in. long (20 cm), are arranged in pairs along the stems. A very pretty Chelone species.

• Grows up to 24-36 in. tall (60-90 cm) and 18-30 in. wide (345-75 cm). Slowly spreads by rhizomes.
• Easily grown in organically rich, medium to wet soils in part shade.
• A welcomed addition to borders, woodland gardens, bog gardens, rain gardens, near ponds and streams.
• Cut back at the end of the season. Pinching stems in spring will result in a shorter plant that will be less prone to flopping.
• No serious pest or disease issue. Keep an eye out for powdery mildew and rust diseases.
• Propagate by seed or by division in spring. Stem-tip cuttings can be taken in spring (see softwood cuttings).
• Native to the United States.