Turtlehead (Chelone) in late August

Turtlehead (Chelone spp.) is a U.S. native. Turtle-head shaped flowers appear in August and September. The 1 inch flowers open from bottom to top along the stem (s). Colors vary from bright white, creamy white, and white tinged with pink (depending on species and cultivar grown).

Pink turtlehead (C. lyonii ) is native to the Southern Appalachian  region (USDA zones 5-8) and is an upright, clump-forming, rhizomatous perennial. It typically grows 2-4′ tall on stiff, square stems. New leaves emerge bronze green in early spring and quickly turns dark green. Full leaves are coarsely-toothed and up to 6 inches long.

Turtlehead grows sturdy in a compost rich, medium to wet soil in full or partial sunlight (6-hours minimum). Plants become floppy when grown in part to deep shade and often require staking. Be wary that turtlehead disperses seeds around the garden. No disease and pest problems are generally the rule, but powdery mildew may pop up if turtlehead becomes stressed out in dry soils or air circulation around plants is poor.

Butterflies, hummingbirds and other pollinators are attracted to turtlehead, and the plants are deer resistant. ‘Hot Lips’ turtlehead is an outstanding selection of C. lyonii with dark green foliage and knockout deep pink colored flowers. ‘Hot Lips’ stands 2-3 feet tall on sturdy deep red stems.