Guide to growing Helmet Flower - Scutellaria

Scutellaria is a genus of hardy perennial plants that range in height from 10 to 90cm. The ones that are grown in gardens tend to be low growing and have a spreading nature, making them ideal for use in rock gardens. Scutellaria blooms in the summertime carrying lipped and hooded tubular shaped flowers that may be red, blue, purple, yellow or white. Some common names for Scutellaria include Helmet Flower and Skullcap.

How to grow Helmet Flower

It is best to grow Scutellaria species such as Helmet Flowers(Scutellaria) outdoors using fresh seed. They should be sown in the autumn with a spacing of about 20cm (small Scutellaria varieties) or 45 to 60cm (larger species); lightly cover the seed once sown. Helmet Flowers can grow in either sunny or partially shaded areas and require good drainage. Ideally the soil should be moist and slightly acidic (pH 6 to 7).

Caring for Helmet Flowers

The ground that Helmet Flower and other Scutellaria grow in should be mulched in the spring time. The tips of the plant should be initially pinched back to encourage branching and a bush growth. Helmet Flowers like a moist soil so keep well watered. If they start to spread then thin the plants by divisions (this method can also be used to propagate Scutellaria plants in the spring; alternatively take cuttings from new shoots in the summer.