Mexican Skullcap

(Scutellaria suffrutescens)

Mexican Skullcap (Scutellaria suffrutescens)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Scutellaria suffrutescens, commonly known as Mexican Skullcap, is an evergreen perennial herb native to rocky slopes and desert grasslands of Northwestern Mexico. It typically grows to a height of 0.5-0.8 feet (0.15-0.25 meters) and spreads 1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters) wide. This plant forms a low, mounding habit with small, rounded, glossy green leaves. The tubular flowers, which are a vibrant mix of pink and red hues, bloom prolifically from late spring through fall, adding long-lasting color to garden beds and borders.

Mexican Skullcap is valued for its drought tolerance and extended flowering period, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping, rock gardens, and as a ground cover in hot, dry climates. It attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies, enhancing biodiversity. While it thrives in full sun, it can also tolerate part shade, especially in hotter regions. It prefers well-draining soil and requires minimal maintenance once established. Overwatering should be avoided to prevent root rot. Mexican Skullcap is not known for significant pest or disease issues, but it can be sensitive to overwatering and poor drainage.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.5-0.8 feet
  • Width: 1-1.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Pink
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Fast

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Fire Resistant, Groundcover, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden

Natural Habitat

Rocky slopes and desert grasslands of Northwestern Mexico

Other Names

Common Names: Cherry Skullcap, Skullcap

Scientific Names: , Scutellaria suffrutescens, Scutellaria spinescens,

GBIF Accepted Name: Scutellaria suffrutescens S.Watson