Chelone (Turtlehead)

“Chelone” is the Greek word for “turtle” and the common name for this plant is “turtlehead”.  The blooms are a pleasant surprise when they appear in August and brighten shady areas throughout the autumn season. They will also perform adequately in full sun as long as they have consistent moisture. They are a bog-like plant in nature, found mostly in marshy areas. They are an ideal choice for a pond area or along a stream. Despite that characteristic, they do not require such an environment, and will do fine in a general garden setting, as long as the soil is not too dry.

The plant grows from 2-3′ tall with an equal width. Some varieties, such as ‘Hot Lip’s’ and ‘Tiny Tortuga’ are more compact in growth and reach about 2 feet. The flowers are pink or white, depending on the variety. Chelone glabra has white flowers; Chelone lyonii has pink flowers. Flower buds appear in tight clusters, which slowly open to flowers that, from a low angle, resemble the head of a turtle. As the flowers fade, newer ones open further down the stem, thus giving a prolonged show of flowers.

You will find Chelone in the “Shade Perennials” section of the greenhouse.