Pink Turtlehead

About this plant

Chelone lyonii 'Hot Lips' brings a delightful surprise to the autumn landscape with its striking rosy-pink flowers that resemble turtle heads. These charming, upright blossoms emerge on strong stems, providing a unique architectural element and a much-needed burst of color just as other garden favorites begin to fade. Perfect for borders, woodland gardens, or naturalized areas, this robust perennial offers exceptional visual interest. Beyond its distinctive appearance, 'Hot Lips' is a magnet for pollinators, particularly bumblebees, who are strong enough to push open its closed petals to access the nectar within. Its glossy green foliage remains attractive throughout the growing season, creating a lush backdrop for its spectacular late-summer and early-fall display. This native charmer is a testament to the beauty and resilience of North American flora. Choose 'Hot Lips' for a dependable, long-blooming perennial that thrives in moist conditions and adds a touch of whimsical elegance to any garden setting. Its low-maintenance nature and ability to withstand challenging conditions make it an excellent choice for both experienced gardeners and those just starting their planting journey.

Installation timing

When we're in season, outside of the winter months, our goal is to get your plants installed within about two weeks. That window gives us enough time to secure your plants from our supplier and find a spot on the schedule. Throughout the process we stay in touch through notifications and your existing client portal on the main A Cut Above website, which is separate from this landscaping plants shop.

Care & maintenance

Plant in rich, consistently moist to wet soil. Ample moisture is crucial for optimal performance, especially during dry spells. Mulch around the base to retain soil moisture. Deadhead spent blooms for a tidier appearance, though it's not strictly necessary for reblooming. Division every 3-4 years in spring can help maintain vigor. Generally pest and disease resistant.

Watering suggestions

Proper watering is the single most important factor in your plant's survival after installation. Newly installed plants have a limited root system and rely on you for consistent moisture while they establish.

• First 2 weeks: Water deeply every day (or every other day in cooler, wet weather), soaking the root ball and surrounding soil.
• Weeks 3–12: Water deeply 2–3 times per week, adjusting for rain, heat, and soil drainage.
• After establishment: Water deeply about once a week during the growing season, and more often in extreme heat or drought.
• How to check: Stick a finger 2–3 inches into the soil near the roots — if it's dry, it's time to water. Deep, less-frequent watering encourages strong roots; shallow daily sprinkles do not.
• Avoid: Overwatering (soggy, waterlogged soil) is just as harmful as underwatering and can drown roots.

Watering needs vary by plant, season, soil, and exposure. Because proper watering is the customer's responsibility after installation, please make sure you understand and can follow these suggestions before ordering.

Good to know: plants and trees purchased from and installed by A Cut Above include a one-year limited warranty from the date of installation. Because plant survival depends heavily on proper watering and care after installation, losses caused by improper care, neglect, animal or chemical damage, or extreme weather are not covered, and we must be given the chance to inspect a struggling plant before it's removed or replaced. Coverage is one replacement per plant. Read our warranty info.