Scutellaria incana aka Hoary Skullcap
Taxonomy
Scutellaria incana, commonly known as the hoary skullcap or downy skullcap, is a rare flowering plant belonging to the mint family (Lamiaceae). It is native to North America, primarily found in the eastern United States and parts of the Midwest. This upright, clump-forming perennial can reach a height of 120cm and features rounded green leaves with scalloped edges and white, hairy undersides. From June to September, it produces deep blue tubular flowers on branching stems. As a houseplant, the hoary skullcap is easy to grow and requires regular watering to thrive. It prefers long-lasting, direct light and should be positioned within one foot of a window. Well-draining soil is ideal for this plant, and it typically does not require additional fertilizers if repotted when it doubles in size. Native to the North Central and Eastern United States, the hoary skullcap is a beautiful addition to any garden or indoor space.
Common names
Hoary Skullcap, Downy SkullcapHow to care for Hoary Skullcap
Difficulty
Hoary Skullcap is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal attention, making it an excellent choice for beginners.
Water
Hoary Skullcap should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Hoary Skullcap loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
Hoary Skullcap requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Hoary Skullcap will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.
Toxicity
Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.
Fertilizer
The Hoary Skullcap should be repotted either when it doubles in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing new potting soil with all the vital nutrients annually is enough to support the growth of the plant, and thus, there is no need for fertilizer. Remember that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.
Growth-pattern
New growth will sprout from the top of the plant as it grows upwards.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Scutellaria Genus
Scutellaria wrightii Wright's Skullcap
Scutellaria cardiophylla Gulf Skullcap
Scutellaria siphocampyloides Gray Leaf Skullcap
Scutellaria racemosa South American Skullcap
Scutellaria californica California Scullcap
Scutellaria galericulata Marsh Scullcap
Scutellaria altissima Somerset Skullcap
Scutellaria integrifolia Helmet Flower
Scutellaria elliptica Hairy Skullcap
