Alpine Skullcap

This is a charming and somewhat underused alpine plant native to the mountains of Europe and Asia. It has a prostrate, spreading habit, with downy, grey-green leaves arranged in pairs. In summer, it produces interesting, dense flower spikes of two-lipped, hooded flowers. Each flower is typically a combination of purple-blue and white, giving it a bi-coloured appearance. It is a very hardy and adaptable plant for the UK rock garden, being less temperamental than many high-alpines. It prefers a sunny position and well-drained soil, and it can even tolerate slightly poorer or drier conditions once established. It is an excellent plant for providing summer interest after many of the early spring alpines have finished. The common name 'Skullcap' comes from the shape of the calyx, which resembles a medieval helmet. It is a great choice for attracting bees and is a reliable performer that adds a touch of the unusual to the garden.

Sun: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Well-drained loam or sandy soil.

Hardiness: H5 — down to −15°C.

Flowering: Jun, Jul, Aug.