White Turtlehead (Chelone glabra) | Prairie Restorations

White Turtlehead

Chelone glabra

Chelone glabra, commonly known as White Turtlehead, is a perennial herb that typically grows 2 to 4 feet tall. It has straight, upright stems that features lance-shaped leaves and produces spikes of white to pale pink, tubular flowers resembling a turtle's head from late summer to early fall. This species thrives in wet habitats such as wet meadows and along shorelines. White Turtlehead is ideal for rain gardens, wetland restorations, and moist woodland gardens due to its preference for wet conditions.

Characteristics

Product Form	Plant, Seed
Type	Forb
Sun	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Soil	Loam, Peat, Calcareous
Moisture	Wet
Average Max Height (inches)	60
Suggested Plant Spacing (inches)	24
Bloom month(s)	August, September
Bloom Color or Type	White
Dominance	Low

Range Maps

Sowing Information

Sow seed onto a firm, weed-free seedbed. Hand-broadcast seed making two perpendicular passes for even coverage. If planting a mix, broadcast the grass component first and lightly rake/drag it into the top 1/8–1/4" of soil. Next, broadcast wildflower/forb seed and press it into the soil surface (with a roller/cultipacker or the back of a rake) to ensure good seed-to-soil contact. After seeding, apply a very light layer of clean, seed-free straw (or other weed-free, site-appropriate mulch) to reduce erosion and retain moisture without smothering seedlings. A good rainfall or thorough watering will help settle seed and mulch and improve germination.

Planting Information

Dig a hole in your planting site slightly larger than the plant’s root system. When placing the plant into the hole, ensure that the soil line remains consistent with its original level in the pot. Fill in around the roots with the excavated soil, gently firming it to eliminate air pockets. Water the plant thoroughly the same day to promote successful establishment.