Chelone obliqua

Also Known As

Purple Turtlehead
Red Turtlehead

Plant type

perennial, aquatic

size

H: 24"-36"
W: 18"-24"

planting zones

5a-9b

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Chelone obliqua plant details

Chelone obliqua is a broadleaf deciduous perennial aquatic with green foliage. In fall and summer purple flowers emerge. Attracts butterflies making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. Grows well with sun and even moisture - regular water. Does well in average soil.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Chelone obliqua

Plant type: perennial aquatic
Plant family: plantaginaceae
Foliage: deciduous green
Mature size: 18 IN - 24 IN - wide, 24 IN - 36 IN - tall
Flowers: purple blooms in fall and summer
Uses: cutting garden

GROWING CONDITIONS for Chelone obliqua

USDA Zones: 5a - 9b
Sun exposure: sun
Watering frequency: even moisture - regular

Soil needs: average

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

This is thought to be the showiest turtlehead and the best for gardens. Attractive dark pink flowers top the sturdy stems of rich green foliage in late summer. C. obliqua prefers partial or dappled sunlight (though in BC full sun is fine), consistently moist conditions, and a fertile loamy soil with abundant organic matter.

By: Phoenix Perennials and Specialty Plants Ltd.

The flamboyant, snapdragon-like (though it?s amazing how they do look like turtles? heads, mouths agape!) flowers of this 2-4' southerner are more purple but still happy in a damp spot where they add bright late summer color. S/M-W