Pollinator Plant Spotlight: Turtlehead (Chelone)

Turtlehead (Chelone) is a unique, water-loving plant that is a must-have for rain or woodland gardens. This charming perennial, native to the meadows, streams, and woodlands of the eastern United States, features blooms that emerge in late summer with flower shapes reminiscent of actual turtle heads. The vibrant flowers are perfectly shaped for easy access to the nectar-rich centers that feed butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees. Here, we’ll tell you more about turtlehead plants and spell out all it has to offer to your local pollinators.

Turtlehead is an excellent perennial for tough-to-grow, moist, even wet soils, as it is natively found along woodland areas and bodies of water. It also adapts to various lighting environments, ranging from full sun (6 hours of sunlight) to full shade (less than 4 hours of sunlight). Try planting turtlehead in a rain garden or along a bog; as long as the soil remains moist, this plant will thrive and stay healthy.

Beloved by a plethora of pollinators, turtlehead features flowers that resemble actual turtle heads and are filled with nectar that is especially beneficial to butterflies, bumblebees, and hummingbirds.Chelone glabra, also known as white turtlehead, is also the sole host plant of the Baltimore Checkerspot butterfly!

Deer and rabbits seldom bother mature turtlehead plants due to toxic compounds found in the foliage. However, they may be tempted to take a nibble when the plants are young, so just be sure to keep an eye on them after planting. Aside from being unbothered by common garden pests, turtlehead is also extremely low-maintenance, blooming summer after summer with no pruning or trimming necessary.