Turtlehead. An erect perennial with deep pink flowers over dark glossy foliage. Height 60cm. Spread 45cm. Flowers August to September. Full sun/partial shade, moist soil. Hardy.
Chelone obliqua ‘Lipstick’, also known as Turtlehead, is a striking perennial prized for its deep pink flowers and dark, glossy foliage. Its upright habit and late summer blooms make it a standout in borders and moist garden spots. Follow this detailed guide to ensure your Chelone obliqua ‘Lipstick’ thrives season after season.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
Spring: Plant Chelone obliqua ‘Lipstick’ in spring when the soil starts to warm. This allows roots to settle and prepare for summer growth and flowering.
Early Autumn: Planting in early autumn gives the plant time to establish before winter, leading to stronger growth next season.
Site Selection
Light Requirements: Chelone flourishes in full sun to partial shade. A spot receiving 4–6 hours of direct light daily is ideal for strong flowering.
Soil Conditions: Moist, humus-rich soil is essential. Avoid dry, sandy, or excessively compacted soil. Improve drainage with compost if needed, while ensuring soil retains adequate moisture.
Planting Instructions
Prepare the Area: Dig a hole twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball.
Soil Enrichment: Mix in well-rotted compost or organic matter to support root development.
Planting Depth: Place the plant so the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.
Backfill and Water: Firm in gently and water thoroughly to eliminate air pockets and encourage root contact.
Watering Needs
Active Growth (Spring to Autumn): Keep the soil consistently moist. Chelone prefers damp conditions and will struggle in dry spells if left unwatered.
Winter Dormancy: Water sparingly during winter dormancy. Natural rainfall is often sufficient unless conditions are exceptionally dry.
Feeding and Mulching
Feeding: In spring, apply a balanced slow-release fertiliser to promote lush foliage and strong flower stems.
Mulching: Apply an organic mulch in early spring to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and protect the root zone of Chelone obliqua ‘Lipstick’.
Pruning and Maintenance
Deadheading: Not required, but you may remove spent flower spikes to maintain a tidy appearance.
Autumn Care: After flowering (August to September), allow foliage to die back naturally. Cut back stems to ground level in late autumn or early winter.
Companion Planting and Uses
Chelone obliqua ‘Lipstick’ is excellent in mixed borders, beside ponds, or in wildlife-friendly gardens. Its late-season flowers attract bees and butterflies, making it a great choice for pollinator-friendly planting schemes.
Pair Chelone obliqua ‘Lipstick’ with moisture-loving companions like Astilbe, Ligularia, or Hosta for a layered, textured effect in damp garden beds.
Final Tips
Chelone obliqua ‘Lipstick’ is fully hardy and resilient, needing minimal winter protection.
Ideal for gardeners seeking late-summer colour and structural foliage.
Regular watering and fertile soil will ensure your Chelone performs beautifully year after year.
By following these steps, your Chelone obliqua ‘Lipstick’ will become a reliable highlight in your perennial planting scheme, bringing rich colour and glossy texture to your garden from late summer through early autumn.
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