Hot Lips Turtlehead

Chelone lyonii ‘Hot Lips’ is a sturdy, moisture-loving perennial admired for its bold presence and distinctive blooms. From late summer into early fall, it produces upright spikes of rosy-pink, turtle-shaped flowers that give the plant its common name, pink turtlehead. The glossy, dark green foliage stays attractive throughout the season and forms a dense, upright clump typically reaching 2 to 3 feet tall and wide. ‘Hot Lips’ thrives in full sun to partial shade but especially appreciates consistently moist, rich soil, making it an excellent choice for rain gardens, pond edges, or damp borders. Highly pest- and disease-resistant, it also tolerates deer and rabbits well. With its vibrant color, strong structure, and late-season interest, Chelone lyonii ‘Hot Lips’ adds a lively and dependable presence to perennial gardens.