Turtlehead
Chelone glabra
Turtlehead. Photo by Robert H. Mohlenbrock.
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Turtleheads are perennial wildflowers that produce pink flowers that are shaped like turtleheads. Turtle Heads are often recommended for moist or boggy soil but can also grow and bloom in dry dirt with filtered sun under a tree canopy.
Seed collection is easy. Allow the flowers to fade, green pea-shaped pods will form at the base of the flower. At maturity the pods will turn brown and open at the far end. Gather the pods and allow them to dry for a few more days on an open plate. Crumble the pods and puff away the chaff to separate the seeds. Seeds are medium-brown, about an 1/8" across and pointed at their ends.
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