Small's Skullcap - Scutellaria multiglandulosa

 

Small's skullcap (Scutellaria multiglandulosa) is one of 11 native species in this genus in Florida and distributed from the central Panhandle south to the central peninsula.  It also occurs sporadically in Georgia and in a few counties of western South Carolina.  It is sometimes considered to be a variety of the more widespread and common S. integrifolia, but  several distinctive traits give it full species status by most taxonomists.  This is a perennial deciduous forb native to well-drained sandy habitats such as sandhills and xeric oak forest clearings in full sun to partial shade.

It makes its appearance in early spring and reaches a mature height of about 2 feet tall by early summer.  The narrow elliptical leaves occur opposite along the stem and, as the Latin name suggests, they are covered by glands. The stems and leaves also are covered by noticeable hairs.

Like others in this genus, the flowers are produced in pairs in the leaf axils near the tops of each stem.  They are typical of the genus, light lavender to almost white with a broad lower lip and a "helmeted" petal above.  The blooms have a very narrow open throat and are pollinated mostly by large-bodied bees.  Flowering can occur from late spring through summer.  

Skullcaps in general are popular wildflowers and propagated by a great many nurseries associated with native plants. Small's skullcap, however, has only very rarely been offered in the past and seemingly not at present.  Like other members of this genus, it would make an attractive addition to a mixed wildflower meadow, given good sun and well-drained soils.

The photos above were taken by my friend, Steve Coleman, and used by permission.