Chelone obliqua
TAXONOMY
FamilyPlantaginaceae
GenusChelone
Zone4
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Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Chelone obliqua, commonly known as the Red Turtlehead, is a perennial plant native to the eastern United States. It belongs to the family Plantaginaceae and the genus Chelone. This plant thrives in temperate climates and is known for its distinctive, turtlehead-shaped flowers that bloom in late summer to early fall. It typically grows in moist, wooded areas and along stream banks.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Pink Turtlehead
Chelone obliqua var. obliqua
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterWet
SoilLoamy
LightIndirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature20° C
Humidity60%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Chelone obliqua requires moderate temperatures and indirect bright light for optimal growth. It prefers soil that is kept evenly moist and thrives in environments with moderate humidity. Regular watering is essential, especially during dry periods. The plant can tolerate a range of temperatures but performs best in temperate climates.Soil
Chelone obliqua prefers loamy soil that is well-draining yet retains moisture. The soil should be rich in organic matter to support its nutrient needs. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Fertilize the plant during the growing season, typically in spring and early summer, to promote healthy growth and flowering. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.Repotting
Repot Chelone obliqua every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its container. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage. Gently remove the plant from its current pot, loosen the roots, and place it in the new pot with fresh, well-draining soil. Water thoroughly after repotting.Propagation
Chelone obliqua can be propagated through division or stem cuttings. The best time to propagate is in early spring or late fall. For division, carefully dig up the plant and separate the root clumps. For stem cuttings, take 4-6 inch cuttings from healthy stems, remove the lower leaves, and plant them in a moist, well-draining soil mix.Pruning
Pruning is essential to maintain the shape and health of Chelone obliqua. Prune the plant in early spring to remove any dead or damaged stems. After flowering, trim back the spent flower spikes to encourage new growth and prevent self-seeding.Toxicity
Chelone obliqua is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, it is always advisable to keep plants out of reach of pets and children to prevent any accidental ingestion.Additional
Chelone obliqua is a great addition to garden borders, woodland gardens, and areas with moist soil. It attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies, making it beneficial for the ecosystem. Mulching around the base of the plant can help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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