Plant Profile: Chelone obliqua var. obliqua

Turtlehead is a clumping perennial native to the plantain family, typically found in the moist woodlands of the southeastern United States. While it is considered rare in North Carolina, it can still be spotted in both coastal and mountainous regions. The plant features distinctive pinkish-purple flowers that bloom on terminal spikes, resembling the head of a turtle and reminiscent of snapdragons. These blooms appear from July through October.

For optimal growth, plant Turtlehead in consistently moist woodland areas, near streams, ponds, or bogs, where it can receive full to partial sunlight. It thrives in rich, humusy soils enriched with composted leaf mulch. This species is known to attract bees and hummingbirds. While Turtlehead is available for purchase commercially, it is important to ensure you are acquiring the true species, as hybrids are often sold instead.