Scutellaria

More Information About Scutellaria

Not to be confused with a Jewish head cloth, the skullcap genus Scutellaria is a member of the mint family, native around the world (including some in North Carolina), and recognized by its small, tubular, butterfly attracting flowers. The name scutellaria comes from the Latin for "small dish", which refers to the shape of the flower.

Scutellaria (Skullcap) Growing Conditions

Skullcaps are mostly small plants that look best in a container, a rock garden or planted in a drift without any taller competition nearby. Most species prefer full sun and once established are very drought tolerant. There are scutellaria species which flower at various times from spring to fall with little snapdragon-ish flowers.

Historically, species in the genus have been used as herbs, medicines, and for 'recreation', but our selections were chosen for ornamental reasons. There are several garden-worthy scutellaria species in the genus, most of which require decent drainage in cultivation.