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Marsh Scullcap

Scutellaria galericulata

Last reviewed: June 2026

Marsh Scullcap (Scutellaria galericulata)
Photo: (c) Benoit Renaud, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Benoit Renaud

Light

part shade

Water

high

Size

12"–24" H × 12"–24" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

AZ, CA, CO, CT and 34 more states

Pollinators

bees, butterflies

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Marsh scullcap is a native wetland perennial that produces small blue flowers from summer through early fall. This low-growing plant thrives in consistently moist soils and partial shade, making it ideal for rain gardens or naturally wet areas of the landscape.

In an HOA neighborhood

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

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Requires consistently wet conditions that may look unkempt
  • Can appear weedy or unintentional in formal landscapes
  • Dies back completely in winter leaving bare spots

Wildlife value

The tubular blue flowers attract native bees and butterflies throughout the extended blooming season. Seeds provide food for birds in late fall.

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.

Does Marsh Scullcap fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.