Sun Exposure: Sun - Part Sun
Soil Moisture: Wet, Medium-Wet
Soil Type: Sand-Loam, Loam, Clay
Height: 3-4 feet
Spread: 2 feet
Blooms: July, August, September
Root: Taproot, Rhizomatous
Habitat: Moist Meadows, Floodplains, Wetlands
Landscape uses: Pond, Wet Meadow, Natural gardens, Deer and rabit resistant
Wildlife Value: Bumblebees and butterflies visit the flowers for nectar. Ruby throated humingbirds also visit these flowers. Host Plant: Baltimore Checkerspot Butterfly
Seed Origin: Wasaga Beach, Ontario
Germination Code: C(120), F
Photo credits: #1 by Superior National Forest, #3/4 by Sundaura Alford-Purvis
Chelone glabra - Turtlehead
Turtlehead is named for its pretty white blossoms which resemble a turtle head poking out from its shell. Bumblebees have the strength to get into the flower, and are the main pollinator of this flower. Some bees that can't get into the flower will chew a hole in the rear of the flower to access the nectar. They may also attract the Ruby-Throated Hummingbird. This is a classic wetland and riparian plant, but does well in residential gardens if it is watered during dry spells.