by Merilyn Crawford, Somervell County Master Gardener
This interesting plant belongs to the Scullaria genus and has a botanical name of Scutellara Suffrutescens. It is known to be drought tolerant, heat resistant, and sun-loving. Altogether, this makes it perfect to grow in any Texas garden, especially in our area.
Additionally, it is in the mint family along with other drought tolerant plants such as Salvia. The flower is reminiscent of tiny snapdragon flowers and is rose-red to pink in color. Although small in size, this flowering plant produces in abundance which makes up for its size and will hold its bloom from late spring until early fall.
Pink Texas Skullcap has Thyme-like foliage and has a dense growth habit, remaining neat and compact. It can, however, benefit and respond well to occasional shearing, which will prevent it from getting thin in the middle. Use Pink Texas Skullcap for rock gardens, dry hillsides, xeriscaping, or even for container gardening.
This hardy plant grows as a perennial as well as an ornamental. Being a perennial, it tends to grow best over several years (approximately 3 years and greater). Due to how easy it is to grow in a variety of conditions, Pink Texas Skullcap is great for beginner gardeners and those that like low maintenance gardens.
Happy Gardening!!