Chelone

Fishmouth, snakemouth, turtlehead…  The common names of this flower come from the 2-lipped shape, which calls to mind an animal’s gaping mouth. The pink, red or white flowers are borne on a spike at the top of the plant.  The leaves are opposite, ovate to lanceolate, and have lightly toothed margins.

Turtlehead enjoys life on the edge of stream banks or in wet forests.  It is a perennial plant in the snapdragon family with a late summer to fall blooming season.  Teas made from turtlehead were once used to treat skin irritations and gastrointestinal maladies.

Turtlehead growing by the stream at Houska’s

Turtlehead growing by the stream at Houska’s

Turtlehead growing by the stream at Houska’s

Turtlehead at Pandapas Pond

Turtlehead: leaves are opposite, lanceolate, and toothed.

Leaf of Turtlehead (Pandapas)

Turtlhead

A mass of turtlehead in a local garden

Turtlehead, Chelone