Lamium

A genus of about 50 species of annuals and perennials, occurring in habitats from dry scrub to moist woodland. The common name dead nettle refers to their resemblance to "stinging nettles", but the two are unrelated; and unlike stinging nettles, Lamium does not have stinging hairs. Although semi-evergreen in temperate climates, the plants are inclined to look a little untidy in winter; but grow with a vengeance again in spring. It is best to cut this plant back after the first bloom to promote compact growth. They are grown as ground covers in gardens.

Explore 4 descendants

Deadnettle

Lamium maculatum

Red deadnettle

Lamium purpureum

Spotted deadnettle

Lamium maculatum

Planning

Difficulty

Easy

Flowering time

Spring, Summer

Fruiting time

Summer

Harvesting

Generally not harvested.

Propagation

Division

Propagation is usually by division of the rooted runners in spring

Special features

Pot plant

They are beautiful planted in hanging baskets and pots, mixed with other suitable plants. Place pots in areas with enough shade.

Attracts useful insects

Lamium species are used as food plants by the larvae of some Lepidoptera species and are loved by bees.

Geography

Origin

Europe, Asia, Northern Africa

Natural climate

Temperate

Environment

Light

Partial Sun, Full Shade

Soil moisture

Moist

Soil type

Loam

Soil PH preference

Neutral

Frost hardiness

Hardy

Personality

Family

Lamiaceae

Flower colour

White, pink and lilac

Scent

Mild

Problems

Generally problem free, but look out for slugs and snails.

Slugs

Deroceras sp.