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Little Scullcap

Scutellaria parvula

Last reviewed: July 2026

Little Scullcap (Scutellaria parvula)
Photo: (c) Laura Clark, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Laura Clark

Light

part sun

Water

medium

Size

2"–8" H × 3"–6" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug

Native to

AL, AR, CT, DE and 30 more states

Pollinators

bees, butterflies

Little scullcap is a tiny native perennial that forms low, compact mats of small leaves. It produces delicate blue or purple flowers throughout the summer months and stays close to the ground at just 2-8 inches tall.

In an HOA neighborhood

Little Scullcap takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Extremely small size makes it nearly invisible in landscaping
  • Can appear sparse or patchy
  • May be mistaken for weeds due to tiny stature

Wildlife value

This plant attracts native bees and butterflies with its small but nectar-rich flowers during summer blooming season.

Common questions

How much sun does Little Scullcap need?
Little Scullcap grows best in part sun conditions.
When does Little Scullcap bloom?
Little Scullcap blooms in June, July, and August.
Where is Little Scullcap native?
Little Scullcap (Scutellaria parvula) is native to AL, AR, CT, DE and 30 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Little Scullcap attract?
Little Scullcap draws bees and butterflies.
Is Little Scullcap HOA-friendly?
Little Scullcap takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Little Scullcap? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz