Scutellaria incana aka Hoary Skullcap
Taxonomy ID: 9888
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 SkullcapMore information about Hoary Skullcap
How difficult is it to take care of Hoary Skullcap
Hoary Skullcap is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal attention, making it an excellent choice for beginners.
What is the growth pattern and size of Hoary Skullcap?
New growth will sprout from the top of the plant as it grows upwards.
What are the water needs for Hoary Skullcap
Hoary Skullcap should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
What is the right soil for Hoary Skullcap
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.
What is the sunlight requirement for Hoary Skullcap
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.
How to fertilize Hoary Skullcap
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.
Is Hoary Skullcap toxic to humans/pets?
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.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Scutellaria Genus
Scutellaria alpina Alpine Scullcap
Scutellaria ovata Heart Leaf Skullcap
Scutellaria californica California Scullcap
Scutellaria wrightii Wright's Skullcap
Scutellaria orientalis Eastern Alpine Skullcap
Scutellaria mexicana Paperbag Bush
Scutellaria indica
Scutellaria siphocampyloides Gray Leaf Skullcap
Scutellaria costaricana Costa Rican Skullcap
