Mad-Dog Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora)

from $5.00

Scutellaria lateriflora, commonly known as Mad-Dog Skullcap, is a native perennial herb found in moist woods, streambanks, marshes, and wet meadows throughout Illinois. It prefers moist to wet, well-drained soils and full sun to light shade in consistently damp conditions.

This modest, branching plant features opposite, lance-shaped leaves and small, tubular, blue to bluish-purple flowers that bloom along one side of the stem from mid to late summer. The flowers resemble tiny helmets—hence the name “skullcap”—and typically appear in loose, leafy clusters. Mad-Dog Skullcap grows 1 to 2.5 feet tall and has a delicate, airy appearance.

For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Scutellaria lateriflora is a useful addition to rain gardens, shaded borders, and naturalized wetland edges. It attracts pollinators such as bees and small butterflies and adds subtle beauty to damp, semi-shaded environments. Historically noted for its herbal uses, it’s best appreciated today for its ecological value and role in supporting native insect life.

Size:

Scutellaria lateriflora, commonly known as Mad-Dog Skullcap, is a native perennial herb found in moist woods, streambanks, marshes, and wet meadows throughout Illinois. It prefers moist to wet, well-drained soils and full sun to light shade in consistently damp conditions.

This modest, branching plant features opposite, lance-shaped leaves and small, tubular, blue to bluish-purple flowers that bloom along one side of the stem from mid to late summer. The flowers resemble tiny helmets—hence the name “skullcap”—and typically appear in loose, leafy clusters. Mad-Dog Skullcap grows 1 to 2.5 feet tall and has a delicate, airy appearance.

For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Scutellaria lateriflora is a useful addition to rain gardens, shaded borders, and naturalized wetland edges. It attracts pollinators such as bees and small butterflies and adds subtle beauty to damp, semi-shaded environments. Historically noted for its herbal uses, it’s best appreciated today for its ecological value and role in supporting native insect life.

Bloom: summer to early fall

Habitats: bogs; edges of vernal pools and ponds; moist depressions in limestone glades; moist sedge meadows; openings in floodplain woodlands; seeps and springs; shaded areas of cliffs; soggy thickets; swamps

Lifespan: perennial

Moisture: wet to moist

Plant type (height): forb (1 to 2.5 feet)

Requirements: full sun to light shade

Soil: soil with abundant organic matter