turtlehead

[ tur-tl-hed ]

noun

1. any of several North American plants belonging to the genus Chelone, of the figwort family, having opposite, serrated leaves and spikes of purple or white, two-lipped flowers.

Word History and Origins

Origin of turtlehead¹

1855–60, Americanism; turtle ¹ + head, so called from the appearance of its flower

Example Sentences

Some specialist moths feed on just one or two plant species, Mr. Cipkowski said, so when you see them you know that plant is around — like the turtlehead borer moth, whose larvae bore into the stems of the native perennial Chelone.

From New York Times

Penstemons like well-drained conditions; for heavier soils consider the dwarf turtlehead selection named Tiny Tortuga, with glossy foliage crowned with rose-pink blossoms in late summer.

From Washington Post

“No comfort for fascists!” said the turtlehead man.

From Seattle Times

You associate some of the lower plantings with moist soil — the royal fern, turtlehead and creeping phlox, for example — but others you’d think would run a mile from flood.

From Washington Post

At Cromwell Valley Park — a member of the recovery team — volunteers have planted four white turtlehead enclosures with high fences to protect the plants from deer.

From Washington Times