I left my potted Chelone outside in a protected area this winter. I'm not sure if the branches are dead, but there are tiny shoots coming out only at the soil level. Does that mean last years's growth is dead? I'm inear NYC and its Apr 8, 2020.

My Chelone dies down to the ground each winter, and I think I just saw new shoots this week.

Chelone is a herbaceous perennial so yes, last years growth above soil level will have died and new growth will come from the roots this year. You can just cut off the dead stems. Hope this helps.

Interesting... Everything I've read says it only flowers on last years growth. . Does anyone have experience to the contrary?

Mine die to the ground every year and rebloom on new growth every year. Do you have a pic of your plant from last year.

Sadly, I do not. I will hope for the best. Thank you.

Last years growth? Someone must have it confused. Mine dies every year and blooms on new growth like typical perennials- like crawgarden's.