Overview
Scutellaria lateriflora is a herbaceous perennial, sub-shrub herbaceous perennial in the genus Scutellaria, part of the Lamiaceae family, with opposite pairs of leaves foliage. It typically grows around 0.6–0.8 metres tall. Scutellaria lateriflora grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include border, cottage garden and wildlife garden.
About
Scutellaria lateriflora, (commonly "blue skullcap", "mad dog skullcap", "American skullcap", "side-flowering skullcap", etc.) is a hardy perennial herb of the mint family, Lamiaceae, native to North America. It has an upright habit, growing 60–80 cm (24–31 inches) in maximum height. It is a wetland-loving species and grows near marshes, meadows, and other wet habitats. The blue flowers are just under 1 cm (0.4 inches) long. In the garden it prefers full sun and loam soil. In UK gardens it is hardy through an average UK winter (RHS H4). Suggested uses include border, cottage garden and wildlife garden. It tolerates neutral soils, well-drained conditions and south-facing aspects.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Scutellaria lateriflora
About the genus
Scutellaria is a genus of flowering plants in the mint family, Lamiaceae. They are known commonly as skullcaps. The generic name is derived from the Latin scutella, meaning "a small dish, tray or platter", or "little dish", referring to the shape of the calyx.
Wikipedia contributors, "Scutellaria", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Scutellaria
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Scutellaria
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Scutellaria lateriflora size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Herbaceous perennial, Sub-shrub
- Foliage
- Opposite pairs of leaves
- Height
- 0.6–0.8 metres
- Suggested uses
- Border, Cottage garden, Wildlife garden
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Scutellaria lateriflora
- Propagation
- Seed, Semi-ripe cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-resistant
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-resistant
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Scutellaria lateriflora?
Scutellaria lateriflora prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Scutellaria lateriflora need?
Scutellaria lateriflora grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
How big does Scutellaria lateriflora grow?
Scutellaria lateriflora reaches a height of 0.6–0.8 metres.
Is Scutellaria lateriflora hardy in the UK?
Scutellaria lateriflora has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Scutellaria lateriflora?
Seed, Semi-ripe cuttings.
