Showy Skullcap
Scutellaria serrata
Last reviewed: August 2026
Toxicity unknown
Showy Skullcap (Scutellaria serrata) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–24" H × 12"–18" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, IL, KY, MD and 9 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Before you buy
Your city may pay you to plant this
Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 437 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.
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Showy skullcap is a compact native perennial that produces spikes of tubular blue or purple flowers from May through July. This well-behaved plant forms neat clumps and works well in mixed borders or as a groundcover in partially shaded areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Showy Skullcap 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
The tubular flowers are particularly attractive to bees and butterflies throughout the summer blooming period. Its native status makes it valuable for supporting local pollinator populations.
Common questions
- How much sun does Showy Skullcap need?
- Showy Skullcap grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does Showy Skullcap bloom?
- Showy Skullcap blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is Showy Skullcap native?
- Showy Skullcap (Scutellaria serrata) is native to AL, IL, KY, MD and 9 more states, per the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).
- What pollinators does Showy Skullcap attract?
- Showy Skullcap draws bees and butterflies.
- Is Showy Skullcap HOA-friendly?
- Showy Skullcap is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew). Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Showy Skullcap? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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