Skullcap, Mad-dog

Mad-dog Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora)

Mad Dog Skullcap is a native perennial herb widely recognized for both its ecological and medicinal contributions. Found naturally along streambanks, in moist meadows, and at the edges of woodlands across Eastern and Central North America, Scutellaria lateriflora offers significant benefits to native wildlife and landscapes. Its small, tubular blue to violet flowers bloom in mid to late summer, providing a valuable nectar source for bees and other pollinators. Historically used in traditional medicine for its calming effects, this versatile plant thrives in moist soils and is a valuable addition to pollinator gardens, medicinal herb gardens, and naturalized spaces.

Key Characteristics:

• Native Pollinator Support: Mad Dog Skullcap’s summer blooms attract various native bees, including bumblebees and sweat bees, offering a crucial nectar source. Its flowers’ tubular shape is well-suited for pollinators with long tongues, and it supports insect biodiversity in woodland edges, streambanks, and meadows.
• Medicinal Nervine Herb: Known for its powerful calming effects, Mad Dog Skullcap has been used for centuries as a nervine to treat anxiety, stress, and nervous tension. The leaves and stems are commonly brewed into teas or used in tinctures to soothe the nervous system, making it a key herb in Western herbal medicine. It’s also used for insomnia and sleep disturbances, particularly when these conditions are linked to stress.
• Moisture-Loving and Adaptable: Mad-dog Skullcap thrives in moist, well-drained soils and prefers partial shade to full sun. It's ideal for planting along streambanks, pond edges, and wet meadows, where it helps prevent erosion and adds natural beauty.
• Wildlife Habitat and Shelter: In addition to attracting pollinators, the dense foliage of Mad-dog Skullcap provides cover for small insects and ground-dwelling creatures, contributing to a balanced garden ecosystem.
• Perfect for Medicinal Gardens and Wetland Areas: Its combination of beauty, ecological function, and medicinal value makes Mad-dog Skullcap an excellent choice for herbal gardens, woodland edges, and damp, naturalized landscapes.

Product Details:

• Native Range: Eastern and Central North America
• Plant Life Cycle: Perennial
• Sun Requirements: Partial shade to full sun
• Soil Requirements: Medium to wet, well-drained
• Mature Height: 1-3 feet
• Bloom Time: Mid-summer to early fall (July to September)
• Bloom Color: Blue-violet
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-8

Mad Dog Skullcap is a perfect choice for anyone looking to combine ecological benefits with herbal uses. It not only supports native pollinators and contributes to biodiversity but also offers potent medicinal properties, making it a must-have for both pollinator gardens and herbal medicine enthusiasts.