Species Alpine skullcap

Alpine skullcap

Scutellaria alpina

Alpine Skullcap (Scutellaria alpina) is a flowering species that is found in mountain alpine meadows and grasslands in Europe and Asia. This herb grows in clusters, reaching up to 45cm tall. It has bright green, oval shaped leaves with delicate purple flowers that cover arching stems. It has a long blooming season, typically from June through August. Alpine Skullcap's flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The plant's soil needs to be moist and well draining, with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. The species prefers full sun exposure, and it does not require any additional fertilizer or maintenance. Alpine Skullcap is an attractive choice for rock gardens or for adding color to any outdoor space.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Cutting,Division,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

5 - 8

Flowers:

Violet to purplish-white Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Alpine skullcap should be watered when the top inch or 2 of soil is dry. Depending on conditions, this usually happens once or twice a week, on average. When watering, aim for slow and deep saturation. Avoid wetting the foliage, and let the water soak all the way to the roots. Avoid over-watering, as this can cause root rot.

sunlight

Alpine skullcap is a perennial plant that loves full sun exposure in order to perform at its best. In its optimum range, it should receive 4-6 hours of direct, unfiltered sunlight every day. At higher altitudes, it may need less direct sunlight, due to the higher levels of atmospheric scattering from the sun's rays. During the summer months when the sun is highest in the sky, the plants should have some partial shade in the afternoons to prevent sunburn. During the spring and autumn months, the sun should be best availed of in the mornings before 11am and in the afternoons after 4pm.

pruning

Alpine skullcap (Scutellaria alpina) should be pruned in late winter or early spring, after the last frost. Prune back any damaged or dead branches to promote new growth. Pinch off any flowers that appear, as flowering takes nutrients away from the plant. Care should be taken not to remove too much of the foliage, as it can lead to over-pruning. If the plant looks over-pruned or lanky, prune back lightly.

Season

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

Alpine skullcap typically starts flowering in June.

Hardiness Map