Hoary Skullcap

Scutellaria incana

Origin: Eastern and Midwest United States

Improvement status: Wild

Seeds per packet: ~150

Germination tested 3/2020: 3% (0% hard seed, 55% dormant seed)

Life cycle: Perennial

This is one of the showiest of the skullcaps. Plants grow to 3 feet tall and 18 inches wide or more. It enjoys medium to dry soil and partial sun. Nectar-rich blue blossoms are prominent in the garden from June to September. This native perennial has a spreading habit. Like many species in this genus, hoary skullcap has a long history of medicinal use. It's reported that indigenous peoples used this plant as a sedative for nervousness and anxiety — and we expect lots of people are once again appreciating this plant for this virtue.

Our seed was produced by our friends at Ernst Conservation Seeds in Meadville, PA.

GROWING TIPS: Cold-moist stratify for 60 days or direct-seed outdoors in the fall.