Species
Chelone obliquaPink Turtlehead1 other cultivar
The Story
Plant Bio
Chelone obliqua, commonly known as Turtlehead, is a perennial plant with upright stems, lance-shaped green leaves, and distinctive tubular, snapdragon-like white flowers that bloom in late summer to fall.
The Alba cultivar features pure white flowers that provide a refined and elegant appearance, making it a striking addition to woodland and border plantings.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
30 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moist
Humidity
Moderate
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring
- Keep soil consistently moist during growing season
- Place in partial shade for best flowering
- Mulch around base to retain moisture
- Water regularly, especially in dry periods
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring
Pro Tip
Ensure soil remains moist and mulch well to promote healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
- Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
- Prune back after flowering to encourage new growth
Don't
- Avoid dry or overly wet soil ❌
- Don’t fertilize with high nitrogen formulas
- Do not ignore pest signs
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Pinch |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Alba White Turtlehead questions
What zones can Alba White Turtlehead grow in?
Alba White Turtlehead is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Alba White Turtlehead deer resistant?
Yes — Alba White Turtlehead is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Alba White Turtlehead bloom?
Alba White Turtlehead typically blooms in late summer to early fall through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Alba White Turtlehead need full sun?
Alba White Turtlehead does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Chelone to compare
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Grow Alba 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.