Oriental Skullcap Scutellaria orientalis
ABOUT
Scutellaria orientalis, commonly known as Oriental skullcap, is a flowering plant known for its distinctive appearance. This perennial herb typically features a basal rosette of leaves from which stems arise. The leaves are often narrow and may have a lance-shaped or ovate appearance, with edges that can range from smooth to somewhat serrated. The foliage is frequently a vibrant green, creating a lush backdrop for the flowers. The flowers of the Oriental skullcap are quite striking and are one of its most defining characteristics. They usually bloom in a tubular shape and are bilaterally symmetrical, with a hood-like upper lip and a lower lip that often displays a more prominent, flared appearance. The blossoms can be found in a range of colors, from pale blues and purples to pinks or even white and are typically held on erect, slender flower spikes that rise above the foliage. These flowers are attractive to pollinators like bees and butterflies, contributing to the ecological diversity of its environment. As the plant matures, it produces small nutlets, which constitute the fruit of the plant. These nutlets are enclosed in a small, shield-like structure, which is a characteristic feature of plants in this genus and the source of the "skullcap" common name. The overall appearance of Oriental skullcap is charming and delicate, often used in ornamental gardens to provide a pop of color and to attract beneficial pollinators.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae
Synonyms
Oriental Skullcap, Eastern Skullcap
Common names
Scutellaria orientalis.
ToxicityTo humans
Scutellaria orientalis, commonly known as Oriental skullcap, is not widely recognized as a toxic plant to humans. However, it belongs to the Lamiaceae family, and while some members of the genus Scutellaria have been used for their potential medicinal properties, incorrect use or ingestion of the wrong species could lead to adverse effects. Typical symptoms of plant poisoning can include gastrointestinal upset like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea; but since there is limited specific information on the toxicity of Oriental skullcap to humans, extreme caution should be taken when handling or ingesting plants not well known or without professional guidance. Ingesting any part of a plant with uncertain properties could lead to unexpected health consequences.
To pets
Scutellaria orientalis, commonly known as Oriental skullcap, does not have a prominent record of toxicity in pets. However, the lack of specific information regarding its effects on animals means that it should be considered potentially unsafe for consumption. In general, pets that ingest plants that are not a regular part of their diet may experience symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, or appetite loss. While not all skullcap species are toxic, it's important to err on the side of caution and prevent pets from ingesting this or any other plant that is not confirmed to be safe to avoid potential adverse health effects. If a pet does consume Oriental skullcap and exhibits any unusual symptoms, it is recommended to consult a veterinarian as soon as possible.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
0.5 feet (15 cm)
Spread
0.5 feet (15 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value - Scutellaria orientalis adds aesthetic appeal to gardens with its vivid flowers and attractive foliage.
- Habitat for Wildlife - The plant offers shelter and food for beneficial insects and small wildlife, supporting biodiversity.
- Drought Resistance - As a hardy plant, it is well suited for xeriscaping, requiring less water and maintenance.
- Erosion Control - Its root system helps stabilize soil, reducing erosion in landscaped areas.
- Nectar Source - Scutellaria orientalis flowers provide nectar for bees and other pollinators, aiding in pollination of surrounding plants.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Scutellaria orientalis extracts may possess properties that help reduce inflammation in the body.
- Antioxidant: Contains compounds that might act as antioxidants, helping to protect cells from damage by free radicals.
- Anxiolytic: Has been suggested to have potential anxiolytic effects, which might help in reducing anxiety.
- Neuroprotective: Might have properties that could protect nerve cells against various types of damage.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Scutellaria orientalis, commonly known as the Oriental skullcap, can be used as a natural dye source due to the presence of flavonoids that can impart a range of colors to textiles.
- The plant can serve as a habitat and food source for various species of bees and butterflies, promoting biodiversity within its native ecosystem.
- Oriental skullcap's dense growth habit makes it suitable for use as ground cover in gardens to suppress weeds and prevent soil erosion.
- The attractive flowers of the Oriental skullcap can be used for ornamental purposes in landscaping, adding aesthetic value to domestic gardens or public spaces.
- Oriental skullcap has been used in traditional crafts for making botanical prints where the leaves and flowers create unique patterns on fabrics or paper.
- The plant may be incorporated into companion planting strategies to take advantage of its ability to coexist with a range of other species.
- The flowers of Oriental skullcap, with their distinctive appearance, can be used in floral arrangements or dried for decorative purposes in potpourri.
- Oriental skullcap can serve as a food source for caterpillars of certain moth species, contributing to the ecological life cycle within its environment.
- In educational settings, the plant can be used to teach botany students about the features and taxonomy of the Lamiaceae family.
- Oriental skullcap seeds may be used in bird feed mixtures to attract a variety of seed-eating avian species to gardens or natural reserves.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Scutellaria orientalis is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Scutellaria orientalis is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Protection: Scutellaria, also known as skullcap, historically signifies protection. This symbolism is derived from the plant's calyx shape, which resembles a medieval helmet, thus offering a protective imagery.
- Peace: Skullcap has been used in herbal medicine to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety, thus it is often symbolized as a plant that brings inner peace and tranquility.
- Healing: With its medicinal properties, skullcap represents healing and is believed to possess powers to mend both physical and emotional ailments.
WaterOriental skullcap prefers consistent moisture, so water this plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Generally, it may require watering approximately once a week, but this can vary depending on climate and soil conditions. Use about one gallon of water per plant to ensure the soil is thoroughly moistened. During hot, dry periods, you may need to increase the frequency to keep the soil from drying out completely, but be careful not to overwater as this could lead to root rot.
LightThe Oriental skullcap thrives best in full sun to partial shade. It's adaptable but favors a spot that receives at least 4 to 6 hours of sunlight daily. If positioned in too much shade, the plant may not flower as prolifically. Avoid placing it in overly shaded areas to ensure healthy growth and flowering.
TemperatureOriental skullcap is relatively hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures but grows best when the temperature is between 60°F and 80°F. It can survive minimum temperatures down to about 30°F. To ensure the healthiest growth, avoid exposing the plant to extremes of cold or heat beyond these thresholds.
PruningTo encourage bushier growth and more blooms, prune Oriental skullcap in early spring. Remove any dead or damaged stems, and trim back to shape the plant. Pruning can be done yearly, and it's also beneficial to deadhead spent flowers to promote additional flowering. The best time to prune is after the last frost when new growth begins to emerge.
CleaningAs needed
SoilOriental skullcap prefers well-draining soil with a rich composition of organic matter. A mix of garden soil, compost, and perlite or sand would provide a healthy growing medium. Maintain a soil pH between 6.5 to 7.5 for optimal growth.
RepottingOriental skullcap should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to replenish its soil and encourage growth. It's best to repot in the spring just before the growing season begins.
Humidity & MistingOriental skullcap thrives in average humidity conditions, generally around 40% to 60%. It does not require excessively high humidity levels to grow well.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, well-draining soil, and average humidity.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, moist soil, and shelter from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleScutellaria orientalis, commonly known as Oriental Skullcap, begins its life cycle as a seed that germinates in late winter to early spring, with the emergence of a small rosette of leaves at the soil surface. As temperatures warm, it develops a stem and more leaves in a basal arrangement. The plant enters its flowering stage in late spring to early summer, producing small tubular flowers that are usually blue or purple, which are pollinated by insects, particularly bees. Following pollination, the flowers develop into small nutlets housed within the persistent calyx, a signature feature of the genus Scutellaria. The seeds mature by late summer and are dispersed by wind, water, or animal activity to initiate a new cycle. Oriental Skullcap is a perennial plant, thus it may die back to the root system in autumn and re-sprout the following spring, continuing its life cycle for several years.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-summer
Propogation: Scutellaria orientalis, commonly known as Oriental skullcap, is commonly propagated through seed sowing. The best time to sow seeds is in spring after the danger of frost has passed, when the soil has warmed up to around 70 degrees Fahrenheit (21 degrees Celsius). To propagate Oriental skullcap by seeds, first, surface-sow your seeds in a well-draining, seed-starting mix, as they require light for germination. Cover the seeds very lightly with soil or simply press them gently into the surface. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and ensure the seed tray or pots are in a bright position but out of direct sunlight. Germination can take anywhere from two to four weeks. After seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves and are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual pots or placed directly into the garden at a distance of about a foot apart to allow for proper growth.
