Chelone glabra

(White Turtlehead, Balmony)

Chelone glabra boasts rows of delicate, white flowers shaped like tiny sea shells. It grows very well from Missouri and eastward to the coast. White Turtlehead is a medium sized wildflower, growing to just 2 to 4 feet. Chelone means turtle in greek and is so named for its resemblance to a turtle's head. This wildflower is another herbal plant used throughout the ages as a laxative or purgative among other uses. Chelone glabra blooms in mid to late summer so it is a perfect accompaniment to all those late bloomers and very early bloomers. White Turtlehead is one of the rare wildflowers that does well in partial shade and is often found on marshy banks.