Pink Turtlehead
Chelone lyonii
Last reviewed: June 2026
Chelone lyonii (Pink Turtlehead) is a native perennial forb blooming July through September in the southeastern United States. This moisture-loving plant thrives in partial shade and attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
24"–36" H × 18"–24" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, GA, MS, NC and 2 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, hummingbirds
Pink turtlehead is a native perennial that produces distinctive snapdragon-like pink flowers from summer through early fall. This clump-forming plant thrives in partial shade and moist conditions, making it ideal for areas that stay consistently watered. The sturdy upright stems and neat growth habit create an attractive, well-behaved garden presence.
Growing Pink Turtlehead
Grow Pink Turtlehead in part shade and medium water. Mature plants reach 24 to 36 inches tall and spread 18 to 24 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Pink Turtlehead is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, mid zone.
- Dies back completely in winter
Wildlife value
Host plant for Baltimore checkerspot butterfly.
The tubular flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds throughout the long blooming season. This plant serves as a host for the Baltimore checkerspot butterfly caterpillars.
Common questions
- When does Pink Turtlehead bloom?
- Chelone lyonii blooms from July through September, producing distinctive pink snapdragon-like flowers.
- Where is Pink Turtlehead native?
- Pink Turtlehead is native to Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee.
- What pollinators visit Pink Turtlehead?
- Pink Turtlehead attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds with its tubular pink flowers.
- What growing conditions does Pink Turtlehead prefer?
- This native forb thrives in partial shade to full shade with medium to high moisture levels, making it ideal for woodland gardens and stream edges.
- Is Pink Turtlehead HOA-friendly?
- Pink Turtlehead is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
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 Pink Turtlehead? 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