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Turtlehead

White flowers of Turtlehead that look like the head of a turtle.

The Late-Season Turtle

Turtlehead (Chelone) is a fun and valuable native perennial. It gets its name from its unique flowers, which look exactly like the head of a turtle with its mouth open. They bloom late in the season (August-October) in shades of white or pink. It is a robust, clump-forming plant with attractive, dark green foliage.

Why You Need It:

  • Unique Blooms: Children and adults alike love the "turtle" flowers.

  • Wet Soil Lover: Thrives in boggy, wet areas where other plants rot.

  • Butterfly Host: The primary host plant for the Baltimore Checkerspot butterfly.

Planting Tips:

Thrives in Full Sun to Part Shade and Moist Soil. Do not let it dry out! It is perfect for a rain garden or the edge of a pond.

Type

Native

benefits 

Supports Wildlife, Flowers, Deer Resistant

Attracts:

Butterflies, Bees

Soil Type 

Rich & Moist, Tolerates Wet / Poor Drainage

Sun Light

Full Sun, Part Sun / Shade

     

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