Species white turtlehead
White flowers with light-green buds and dark-green leaves with light-green veins on a green stem

white turtlehead

Chelone glabra

Also Known As - White Turtlehead
White Turtlehead is an amazing plant species because of its unique look and hardy nature. It is native to wet soil and can be found in most of the U.S. and in Canada. Its stems reach up to two feet and the brilliant white flowers bloom from early summer to late summer. Its strong leaves are greenish-white with a thick center vein that helps give it its striking turtle-like shape. Its roots can spread out and form clumps, making it an easy flower for gardeners to grow. White Turtlehead is an extremely low maintenance plant, growing anywhere with access to moisture. This flower adds a tranquil feel to your garden, and provides perfect beauty for any occasion.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Division,Seed Propagation,Cutting

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 8

Flowers:

White with pink tinge Flowers

Sun:

Part shade

Soil:

Sandy Loamy Clay Humus

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

White turtlehead (Chelone glabra) should be watered regularly to ensure its health and surviving during the growing season. The plant likes moist soil, and should be watered about once a week throughout the growing season. However, consideration should be taken regarding the environment, and the plant should not be overwatered. In dry climates and during dry spells, it is better to water a little bit more frequently as the soil dries out quickly. During the winter months, the plant does not need to be watered as often. In the absence of rainfall, white turtlehead should be watered once every 3 weeks or so during cooler months, and should not be watered if the soil is still moist from previous waterings.

sunlight

White turtlehead (Chelone glabra) needs 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily to thrive and produce its beautiful white flower clusters. To help the plant get the most out of the sun, it’s best to place it in an area that is sunny in the morning and late afternoon, with partial shade during the hottest part of the day. This will help the plant stay hydrated without burning its leaves. Additionally, it is important the plant does not get too much shade or not enough sunlight, both of which can lead to stunted growth.

pruning

White Turtlehead (Chelone glabra) should be pruned in late winter, when the plant is still dormant. Pruning should be done conservatively, removing only dead, damaged, or unwanted growth. About 1-third of the stems can be removed, leaving the plant with a more pleasing shape and allowing light to reach the center. Trimming the stems and foliage back by 1-half to 2-thirds their original length during pruning will help promote bushy growth. It is also important not to prune too much, as this can reduce the number of flowers.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

White turtlehead typically starts flowering in late summer to early fall, usually between August and September.

Starts Flowering

White turtlehead typically starts flowering in late summer to early fall, usually between August and September.

Hardiness Map