2 named cultivars

perennialN. America Native

Pink Turtlehead

The Story

Plant Bio

Chelone obliqua, commonly known as Pink Turtlehead, is a perennial herbaceous plant with upright, tubular flowers resembling turtle heads, displaying shades of pink and green foliage. It thrives in moist, shaded garden conditions.

This species is appreciated for its striking floral form and its ability to attract pollinators like bees and hummingbirds, making it a valuable addition to wildlife-friendly gardens.

Uses & Benefits:

Adds vertical interest with tubular purple flowers, attracts pollinators, and enhances shaded garden areas.

Native plant suited for moist soils, requires minimal maintenance once established.

Supports pollinators and native wildlife, promotes biodiversity in shaded gardens.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moist soil preferred

Humidity

Average to high humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring.
Keep soil consistently moist during growing season.
Mist cuttings weekly to encourage rooting.
Transplant seedlings after last frost, approximately 6 weeks.
Mulch around plants to retain soil moisture.
Divide mature clumps every 3-4 years in early spring.

Pro Tip

Provide moist, well-drained soil and partial shade for best growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 💧
Prune after flowering to maintain shape
Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Fertilize with a balanced, organic fertilizer in spring

Don't

Avoid dry or overly sandy soils ❌
Don’t let soil dry out during peak summer
Refrain from heavy pruning in late fall
Don’t expose to prolonged full sun in hot climates

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

Shaded border with purple accentsWildlife-friendly garden edge

Companion Plants

Ferns AstilbeJoe-Pye weed LigulariaHostas

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Pink Turtlehead questions

What zones can Pink Turtlehead grow in?

Pink Turtlehead is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Pink Turtlehead deer resistant?

Yes — Pink Turtlehead is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Pink Turtlehead bloom?

Pink Turtlehead typically blooms in late summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Pink Turtlehead need full sun?

Pink Turtlehead does best in part shade.