White Turtlehead (Chelone glabra)

White Turtlehead (Chelone glabra) 

White Turtlehead plays a keystone role as the primary host plant for the Baltimore Checkerspot butterfly (Euphydryas phaeton). It is a perennial wildflower native to wet meadows, marshes, and woodland edges across the eastern United States, including Wisconsin. Standing two to three feet tall, it bears tight terminal spikes of creamy white, two-lipped flowers that resemble the head of a turtle poking from its shell. 

Blooming from late summer into early fall, it offers vital nectar when many other native plants have faded, attracting bumblebees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Its narrow floral throats favor long-tongued pollinators, especially bumblebees, which pry open the “turtle’s mouth” to reach the nectar deep inside.

Turtlehead thrives in moist, rich soils and tolerates both sun and shade, making it a versatile choice for rain gardens, stream buffers, and pollinator meadows. Its presence often signals healthy hydrology and intact native plant communities.  (SF)