White turtlehead (Chelone glabra) plant

White turtlehead (Chelone glabra) Seeds

$ 4.75

In late summer, patches of dark green foliage are topped with creamy white 1 inch-long flowers that look like a turtle’s head. Bumblebees squeeze their head into the “lips” to sip nectar and pollinate the flowers. Hummingbirds also visit its flowers. It is a host plant for several species of butterfly. A great late summer addition to a native landscape. Creeps slowly from the roots to make patches.

Native to Maine: Yes

Growing conditions: Part to full shade in moist to wet soil

Grows up to: 1-3'

Blooms: In late summer

Natural habitat: Moist to wet meadows, thickets, and wooded streamsides

Seeds per packet: 50-100

Germination Code(s): B
These seeds require a cold period to germinate - a minimum of 90 days below 40°F in moist soil (or sand or vermiculite).  Sow outdoors in pots November through February. A great species for beginner seed-sowers.

Each seed package carries a specific germination code along with the plant description. These codes indicate specific sowing instructions.

  • A Seeds can be sown outdoors in fall or early spring.
  • B Seeds need a winter or cold period to germinate. Sow outdoors in fall or winter.
  • C Seeds need light to germinate; sow on soil surface and leave uncovered.
  • D Seeds need alternating cycles of warm-to-cold-to-warm to germinate. They can be sown either outdoors in spring or summer and will germinate the following year or in a flat in a warm place for 3 months, then moved to a refrigerator for 2 months, then moved outside in the early summer warmth.
  • E Seeds can not be allowed to dry out. Sow immediately.
  • F Seeds take two years to germinate. Sow outside in the fall or winter and look for germination in the second spring. A shady location prevents the flats from rapid drying and reduces weeding
  • G Large seeds should be soaked overnight in water.
  • FERN: Sow spores in a warm bright location in a sealed container and keep moist. Directions enclosed with package. Challenging.

If you have specific questions about seeds and germination guidelines please contact us at info@wildseedproject.net.

All seeds can be sown and placed outdoors in fall or winter bypassing the need for an artificial indoor cold stratification (refrigerator) required for some species when planted in spring. This is the simplest method. See How to Grow Natives From Seed for detailed instructions.