Scutellaria lateriflora
Mad Dog Skullcap
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Description:
Mad Dog Skullcap is a low-growing perennial in the mint family with a square stem and toothed, opposite leaves that are dark green above and light green underneath. Its tiny, tubular, two-lipped blue flowers bloom from July to early October.
Native to freshwater wetlands, this plant is a good choice for moist to wet low spots and shorelines of streams and ponds. The flowers attract native bees. The plants are also bitter and slightly toxic to deer and rabbits.
The genus name comes from the Latin word scutella, or a small dish or saucer, which refers to the shape of the persistent calyx after the flowers fade. The leaves have a history of use in herbal medicine. The common name of Mad Dog Skullcap is a reference to the belief that this plant could cure rabies, which has been proven false.
Plant Details:
Other Common Names: Blue Skullcap
Plant Type: Flower, Perennial
New Jersey Native: Yes
Bloom Times: Summer, Late Summer to Fall
Bloom Colors: Blue, Purple
Deer Resistance: High
Attracts Pollinators and Wildlife: Bees and Other Pollinators
Salt Tolerance: Low to None
Hardiness Zone: 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b
Physiographic Region: All Regions in NJ
Soil Characteristics
Soil Type: Loam, Organic
Soil Moisture: Moist, Wet
Soil pH: Slightly Acidic, Neutral, Slightly Alkaline
Light Needs of Plant
Optimal Light: Full Sun
Light Range: Full Sun, Partial Shade
Water Needs of Plant
Soil Moisture: Moist, Wet
Drought Tolerance: None
Size and Growth Rate
Height: 2 - 3 ft
Spread: 1.5 - 2.5 ft
Growth Rate: Medium