Plants in genus chelone
Chelone obliqua var. speciosa
Chelone obliqua var. speciosa, known as turtlehead, is a native plant with 3-foot tall stems and dark glossy green leaves. It produces mauvy-lavender flowers in September, attracting hummingbirds. This plant prefers rich, moist, slightly shaded spots but can tolerate full sun for best flowering. Its unique flowers and wildlife appeal make it a favorite in native plant gardens.
Chelone obliqua
Chelone obliqua, native to the southeastern US, is a perennial flowering plant with spikes of turtlehead-like flowers that bloom in late summer and early fall. It grows 2 to 3 feet tall and is adaptable to various garden conditions, making it a great choice for fall color. Its unique flower shape and ability to attract pollinators add interest to gardens.
Chelone glabra
Chelone glabra, commonly known as turtlehead, features white blossoms resembling a turtle's head. This native plant thrives in part shade and wet soils, making it suitable for cottage and bog gardens. It is beloved by pollinators and spreads by rhizomes.
Chelone lyonii 'Hot Lips'
Chelone lyonii 'Hot Lips' is an improved selection of pink turtlehead, featuring shiny green foliage with a bronze tint in spring. It grows 2-3 feet tall and is topped with pink snapdragon-like flowers in late summer. This plant thrives in rich forest habitats and along stream banks, adding a touch of color to naturalized areas.
Chelone glabra 'Black Ace'
Chelone glabra 'Black Ace' is a native perennial with very dark foliage that emerges with a black cast in spring. It grows rapidly in moist soils and reaches a mature height of 6 feet, topped with clusters of pure white, snapdragon-like flowers in late summer.
Chelone obliqua 'Alba'
Chelone obliqua 'Alba' is a perennial with white snapdragon-like flowers and dark green foliage. It forms a 20-inch tall clump that widens over time and blooms in late summer to early fall. This plant tolerates both wet and dry conditions.
Chelone 'Hot Lips'
Chelone 'Hot Lips' is a native wetland plant with pink, bell-shaped flowers that attract pollinators. It thrives in wet soil and shade, making it ideal for woodland and rain gardens.