Scutellaria incana 'Prairie Snow'
Scutellaria incana 'Prairie Snow' is a compact native perennial with upright stems covered in clusters of bright white flowers that bloom throughout summer. Its tidy habit, extended flowering period, and adaptable nature make it a valuable choice for borders and naturalistic plantings while providing an excellent nectar source for pollinators.
Height & Spread: 18 - 24 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Summer
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Average well drained soil
Watering Needs: Low to moderate; drought tolerant once established
Deer Resistance: Deer resistant
Native Status
This selection is a cultivated form of Scutellaria incana, a species native to eastern and central North America. It is valued in native gardens for its long bloom period, adaptability, and support of local pollinators.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Attracts native bees and bumblebees which visit the tubular flowers for nectar throughout the summer bloom period.
Butterflies
- Provides nectar for butterflies including skippers and smaller native butterfly species that frequent summer blooming perennials.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 18 - 24 in apart to allow its upright clumping form to develop while maintaining good air circulation.
Landscape Placement
- Well suited for native plantings, sunny borders, woodland edges, and cottage gardens where its white flowers add brightness and attract pollinators through summer.
Companion Plants
- Asclepias tuberosa (Butterfly Weed) - Adds vivid orange blooms and strong butterfly appeal while sharing similar sunny growing conditions.
- Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower) - Provides bold summer flowers and extended pollinator value alongside the delicate white blooms.
- Schizachyrium scoparium (Little Bluestem) - Adds native grass texture and seasonal movement that complements the upright habit.
- Pycnanthemum muticum (Clustered Mountain Mint) - Brings silvery foliage and exceptional pollinator activity while filling similar native garden spaces.
- Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm' (Black Eyed Susan) - Creates a classic native planting combination with warm yellow blooms and reliable summer performance.