Chelone obliqua alba
Chelone obliqua Alba photo courtesy of Jellito Seeds
White Turtlehead

Chelone obliqua 'Alba' is the rarer white form of native turtlehead. Each stalk of attractive dark green leaves witll be topped with hooded, white snap dragon-like blooms in late summer. The flowers resemble turtleheads hence the name.  We have had good success with many different varities of Chelones in partially shaded sites in our perennial borders. They have thrived with only supplemental watering during very dry periods. 

  • Height: 60-90 cm (2-3 ft)
  • Spread: 60-90 cm (2-3 ft)
  • Cold Hardiness: Zone 3-8
  • Sun or Shade: sun to partial shade
  • Bloom Time: late summer
  • Leaf Colour: green
  • Bloom Colour: white
  • Critter Resistance: deer and rabbits
  • Nature Attraction: bees

Growing and Maintenance Tips

Chelone grows best in full sun or part sun in moisr to wet soil. Plants thrive in soils high in organic matter and tolerate seasonal flooding. They will flourish in garden situations if irrigated.They can also be planted in a water garden or a moist perennial border.  Plants can be pruned or pinched back in spring to encourage growth of a shorter sturdier plant. This is usually not necessary unless plants are growing in full shade. This wildflower is relatively pest resistant and fairly unpalatable to deer and other mammals

Specials

Native
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