Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
36 inches
Width
30 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moist
Humidity
Moderate
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Chelone glabra, commonly known as White Turtlehead, is a perennial herbaceous plant with erect stems, lush green foliage, and distinctive tubular, white flowers that resemble turtle heads, blooming in late summer to fall. This species is valued for its shade tolerance and its ability to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, making it a popular choice for naturalistic gardens and wetland areas.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or cuttings into moist soil in early spring.
- Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist.
- Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Provide partial shade in hot climates for optimal growth.
- Divide clumps every 3–4 years in early spring or fall.
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape and health.
Pro Tip
Ensure soil remains moist and provide partial shade for best blooms.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently to keep soil moist 🌱
- Prune dead or damaged stems after flowering
- Mulch annually to conserve moisture
Don't
- Avoid dry, well-drained soils ❌
- Don’t over-fertilize, which can reduce flowering
- Refrain from excessive pruning during late fall
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Pinch | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
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
White Turtlehead questions
What zones can White Turtlehead grow in?
White Turtlehead 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 White Turtlehead deer resistant?
Yes — White Turtlehead is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does White Turtlehead bloom?
White Turtlehead typically blooms in late summer to fall through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does White Turtlehead need full sun?
White Turtlehead does best in part shade.
More Chelone to compare
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow White Turtlehead 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.
