Pontic Skullcap
A rare and refined addition to the rock garden, Scutellaria pontica forms compact mounds of small, aromatic foliage topped with delicate, two-lipped violet-blue flowers. This dwarf skullcap blooms in abundance, attracting pollinators while maintaining a tidy, low profile ideal for crevices and troughs.
Native Range:
Caucasus region and northeastern Turkey, often found on rocky slopes and limestone outcrops.
Hardiness:
USDA Zones 5–8. Hardy and tolerant of cold winters, especially with good drainage.
Cultivation:
Thrives in full sun to light shade in sharply drained, alkaline soils. Perfect for alpine gardens, screes, and troughs where it can be tucked into cracks or gravel beds. Drought-tolerant once established and very low-maintenance. Trim lightly after flowering to maintain compact form.
Height: 4–6 inches
Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer
Soil Needs: Well-drained, preferably alkaline soils
Water Requirements: Low to moderate; avoid winter wet
Pontic Skullcap
A rare and refined addition to the rock garden, Scutellaria pontica forms compact mounds of small, aromatic foliage topped with delicate, two-lipped violet-blue flowers. This dwarf skullcap blooms in abundance, attracting pollinators while maintaining a tidy, low profile ideal for crevices and troughs.
Native Range:
Caucasus region and northeastern Turkey, often found on rocky slopes and limestone outcrops.
Hardiness:
USDA Zones 5–8. Hardy and tolerant of cold winters, especially with good drainage.
Cultivation:
Thrives in full sun to light shade in sharply drained, alkaline soils. Perfect for alpine gardens, screes, and troughs where it can be tucked into cracks or gravel beds. Drought-tolerant once established and very low-maintenance. Trim lightly after flowering to maintain compact form.
Height: 4–6 inches
Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer
Soil Needs: Well-drained, preferably alkaline soils
Water Requirements: Low to moderate; avoid winter wet
