Heart-leaved Skullcap
Scutellaria ovata
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
12 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Eastern North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Scutellaria ovata, commonly known as Heart-leaved Skullcap, is a perennial herb featuring ovate, softly hairy leaves and delicate spikes of lavender to purple flowers that bloom in summer. This species is appreciated for its drought tolerance and ability to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, making it a valuable addition to native and pollinator-friendly gardens.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring.
- Keep soil consistently moist during germination, about 2 weeks.
- Transplant seedlings after they develop 2-3 sets of leaves.
- Plant in well-drained soil with full to partial sun exposure.
- Water regularly during first growing season to establish roots.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Ensure well-drained soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms
- Divide clumps every 2-3 years for healthy growth
Don't
- Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
- Do not fertilize excessively, as it prefers lean soils
- Keep in shaded areas to prevent legginess
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Plant |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Heart-leaved Skullcap questions
What zones can Heart-leaved Skullcap grow in?
Heart-leaved Skullcap is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Heart-leaved Skullcap deer resistant?
Yes — Heart-leaved Skullcap is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Heart-leaved Skullcap bloom?
Heart-leaved Skullcap typically blooms in late spring to mid-summer through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Heart-leaved Skullcap need full sun?
Heart-leaved Skullcap does best in part shade.
Is Heart-leaved Skullcap drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Heart-leaved Skullcap handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Scutellaria to compare
Hoary Skullcap
Scutellaria incana
Blue Sky Skullcap
Scutellaria montana 'Blue Sky'
Resinous Skullcap
Scutellaria resinosa
Baikal Skullcap
Scutellaria baicalensis
Somerset Skullcap
Scutellaria altissima
Texas Rose Skullcap
Scutellaria suffrutescens 'Texas Rose'
Keep exploring
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Hardy in your zone?
Grow Heart-leaved Skullcap with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
