Chelone 'Tiny Tortuga'

Chelone lyonii 'Tiny Tortuga': Big Impact in a Petite Package

Compact, colourful, and charming, Chelone 'Tiny Tortuga' brings all the appeal of classic turtlehead into a much smaller frame. Rosy-pink, turtle-shaped blooms appear on sturdy stems from late summer into early fall, rising just above glossy, dark green foliage. Its naturally dwarf habit makes it perfect for small gardens, containers, or the front of moist borders. Pollinator-friendly, deer-resistant, and easy to grow, this petite powerhouse lights up the late-season shade garden with clean form and vibrant colour.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 30–40 cm
• Spread: 30–35 cm, forming a dense, rounded clump
• Flower Colour: Deep pink
• Flowering Period: Late summer to early fall
• Foliage: Glossy, dark green leaves with fine serrations
• Sunlight Requirements: Part shade to full sun (with adequate moisture)
• Soil Requirements: Moist, rich, well-drained soil; tolerant of clay and damp sites

Uses and Benefits: 'Tiny Tortuga' is ideal for small-space shade gardens, rain gardens, or containers where full-size turtlehead would be too large. Its tidy, upright form provides structure and late bloom in compact designs, while its cheerful pink flowers attract bumblebees and extend the season's colour. This cultivar is perfect for layering at the front of borders and combining with fine or colourful foliage.

Companion Plants: Pair with the rosy-mauve sprays of Heuchera 'Berry Timeless', the rich pink blooms of Anemone 'Curtain Call Deep Rose', and the copper-rimmed blades of Carex 'Everglow' for a compact, moisture-loving composition that shines from summer into fall.

Care Instructions: Plant in part shade with moist, humus-rich soil. Water consistently in dry periods, especially in containers. Cut back stems in late fall or early spring. Divide clumps every 3–4 years to refresh vigour and maintain compact growth.

History: Bred as a dwarf selection of Chelone lyonii, 'Tiny Tortuga' was introduced for smaller landscapes and container gardening. It maintains the species’ pollinator value and adaptability to damp soils while offering a neater, scaled-down version of this North American native.

Final Thoughts: Neat, bold, and endlessly useful, Chelone 'Tiny Tortuga' brings late-season energy and native charm to small spaces—proof that even the smallest turtlehead can make a big splash.