Virginia Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora): Native Wetland Herb for Nervous System Support

Overview

Virginia skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora) is a slender, herbaceous perennial native to moist meadows and woods of eastern North America. It grows 1-3 feet tall with opposite, toothed leaves and small, blue-violet, helmet-shaped flowers in one-sided racemes from leaf axils in mid- to late summer. Long used as a nervine tonic.

Botanical Details

• Family: Lamiaceae (mint family)
• Genus: Scutellaria
• Species: lateriflora

Culture & Uses

Part shade to full sun, moist to wet soil. Ideal for rain gardens, pond edges, moist borders. Aerial parts harvested in flower for tinctures, teas to relieve anxiety, insomnia, muscle tension. Contains flavonoids (scutellarin). Gentle, non-sedating. Self-sows modestly. Hardy in USDA zones 4-8.