Family: Lamiaceae
Common Name: Skullcap

Some species in this genus of around 300 species of annual or perennial, herbaceous plants are shrub-like, although stems do not become very woody. Scutellarias are mostly native to mountainous and temperate regions of the world, though a few species are indigenous to the tropics. Many are suitable for mixed borders and some small species are suited to rock gardens.

Species

S. alpina is a hardy, spreading perennial from Europe and Central Asia, growing to 15 cm (6 in) high. It has toothed, oval leaves and purple flowers in mid to late summer.

S. costaricana, from Costa Rica, grows between 45 cm and 1 m (18-40 in) high, with almost heartshaped leaves and clusters of orange-scarlet flowers with yellow throats, in early summer. In cool climates, this species requires greenhouse conditions.

S. indica is a hardy perennial from China and Japan which grows to 30 cm (12 in). It has small, hairy leaves and light purplish blue or slate-blue flowers, in summer through to early autumn. Var. parvifolia, with lilac-blue flowers, attains a height of 25 cm (10 in) and a spread of about 30 cm (12 in).

Cultivation

Scutellarias are best grown in a light, very well-drained soil. Gravelly or sandy types are especially suitable. Soil should be either alkaline or neutral. Choose a position in full sun, although plants will also tolerate dap-pled shade, as cast by trees, provided it is not too heavy. Small species can, if desired, be grown in an alpine house. In this instance, grow in pans or half pots of well-drained, soil-based potting compost. Ensure good light and provide an airy atmosphere. Propagate from seed sown in autumn in a garden frame, by division in early spring, or from soft, basal cuttings in spring.

Climate

Depends on the species.