Scutellaria

Scutellaria is a genus of flowering plants in the mint family, Lamiaceae. They are known commonly as skullcaps. The generic name is derived from the Latin scutella, meaning "a small dish, tray or platter", or "little dish", referring to the shape of the calyx. The common name alludes to the resemblance of the same structure to "miniature medieval helmets". The genus has a subcosmopolitan distribution, with species occurring nearly worldwide, mainly in temperate regions.

Description

Most are annual or perennial herbaceous plants from 5 to 100 cm tall, but a few are subshrubs; some are aquatic. They have four-angled stems and opposite leaves. The flowers have upper and lower lips. The genus is most easily recognized by the typical shield on the calyx that has also prompted its common name.

Taxonomy

The genus Scutellaria includes approximately 360 to 460 species. The Flora of North America recognizes 22 species in the United States, and the Flora of China recognizes 98 species in China.

Uses

Many species are cultivated for their ornamental flowers. Additionally, Scutellaria species are used in traditional medicine. Several species have been used in systems of traditional medicine for the supposed treatment of a variety of diseases. Scutellaria baicalensis in particular is a common component of many preparations in traditional Chinese medicine.

See also

• List of Lamiaceae genera

External links

• The Plant List: Scutellaria
• USDA Plants Profile: Scutellaria