Blue Skullcap
Scutellaria lateriflora
Blue Skullcap is a wetland-loving native perennial with tiny blue-purple flowers arranged along side branches. Prized for centuries in herbal medicine as a calming nervine, it thrives in moist habitats and attracts diverse pollinators.
Lamiaceae (Mint family)
Summer to early fall (July-September)
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: plectranthus mona lavenders and bee balms also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
The genus name Scutellaria comes from Latin scutella (small dish or saucer), referring to the shield-like shape of the persistent calyx after flowers fade. The common name "skullcap" refers to the cap-like shape of the flowers and seed capsules, which resemble military helmets from the Middle Ages. "Mad dog skullcap" comes from its historical use in treating rabies hysteria. Native Americans and early settlers valued it as one of the most important nervine herbs. The "side-flowering" common name refers to the flowers growing along the sides of branches rather than at the tips.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates more shade than most flowering plants
Water
Requires consistently moist to wet soil; thrives in wetland conditions; does not tolerate dry soils
Soil
Moist, Wet, Loamy, Sandy, Clay, Adaptable to various moist soil types
Expert Growing Tips
Plant in consistently moist to wet areas
Spreads by rhizomes but not as aggressively as some mint family members
Tolerates standing water and periodic flooding
Can handle both sun and considerable shade
No serious pest or disease problems
Watch for aphids, powdery mildew, and leaf spot in humid conditions
Harvest aerial parts during flowering for medicinal use
Deer and rabbit resistant due to bitter-tasting leaves
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Rain gardens and bioswales
- Pond and stream margins
- Wetland gardens
- Native plant gardens
- Pollinator gardens
- Medicinal herb gardens
Traditional Uses
- Traditionally used as nervine sedative for anxiety, insomnia, and nervous conditions
- Cherokee used it to regulate menstruation and treat hysteria
- Historically used in North America for rabies treatment (hence "mad dog skullcap")
- Modern research into anxiolytic and neuroprotective properties
- Contains flavonoids including baicalein and wogonin
- Approved in Europe as over-the-counter sedative
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Blue Skullcap
Why is it called Mad Dog Skullcap?
Blue Skullcap earned the name "Mad Dog Skullcap" because it was used in North America in the 1770s to treat rabies hysteria and hydrophobia. Though not effective for rabies, it became a common treatment for nervous conditions.
Is Blue Skullcap safe to use as a medicinal herb?
Blue Skullcap has been traditionally used as a nervine and sedative. However, some commercial skullcap products have been adulterated with toxic germander (Teucrium). Always source from reputable suppliers and consult a healthcare professional before use.
Does Blue Skullcap spread aggressively?
Blue Skullcap spreads by rhizomes and can be somewhat aggressive in ideal wetland conditions. It is best planted in naturalized areas or wetland gardens where spreading is acceptable. Regular division can help control its spread.
What pollinators does Blue Skullcap attract?
Blue Skullcap attracts bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and various flies. Its flowers provide nectar throughout summer and early fall when many other plants have finished blooming.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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