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Description
Chelone Obliqua, commonly known as the turtlehead plant, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to eastern North America. It is a member of the snapdragon family and features showy, tubular, white or pink flowers that resemble the shape of a turtle’s head. The plant typically blooms in late summer to early fall and can grow up to 2-3 feet in height. It is a popular choice for gardeners due to its unique appearance and ability to attract pollinators.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Chelone |
Appearance
The turtlehead plant has an upright growth habit and produces glossy, lance-shaped, dark green leaves that measure 2-5 inches in length. Its flowers, which bloom in late summer and early fall, are arranged in dense, terminal spikes and feature two lips that resemble the shape of a turtle’s head. The flowers can be white or pink in color, with the pink variety being more common. The plant can grow up to 2-3 feet in height and has a spread of 1-2 feet.
Care Guide
To care for the turtlehead plant, it is important to provide it with well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers moist soil and partial shade, but can also tolerate full sun if kept well-watered. It is hardy in USDA zones 3-8 and does not require much fertilization. Deadheading the spent flowers can encourage reblooming and prevent self-seeding.
Common Pests & Diseases
The turtlehead plant is relatively disease-resistant, but can be susceptible to powdery mildew and leaf spot if grown in humid conditions. Pests such as aphids and spider mites may also infest the plant, but can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Chelone Obliqua is native to eastern North America and can be found growing in moist habitats such as streambanks, wet meadows, and swamps. It is a popular choice for gardeners and can be grown in a variety of landscape settings, including woodland gardens and shade gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Chelone Obliqua toxic to pets?
A: The turtlehead plant is not considered toxic to pets, but it is always best to keep pets from consuming any part of the plant.
Q: How often should I water my turtlehead plant?
A: The turtlehead plant prefers moist soil and should be watered regularly to keep the soil consistently moist.
Q: Can I divide my turtlehead plant?
A: Yes, the turtlehead plant can be divided in the spring or fall when it is dormant. Dividing the plant will help it maintain its vigor and prevent overcrowding.
Q: How do I encourage my turtlehead plant to bloom?
A: Deadheading the spent flowers can encourage reblooming and prolong the blooming period of the turtlehead plant.
Related Plants
- Chelone glabra
- Penstemon digitalis
- Monarda fistulosa
- Lobelia cardinalis
References
- “Chelone obliqua.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 15 Nov. 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b282>.
- “Chelone obliqua.” North Carolina State University. Accessed 15 Nov. 2021. <https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/chelone-obliqua/>.
- “Chelone obliqua.” The Spruce. Accessed 15 Nov. 2021. <https://www.thespruce.com/turtlehead-plant-growing-profile-4158099>.
