Lamium maculatum aka Spotted Dead Nettle

Lamium maculatum, or spotted dead nettle, belongs to the mint family. This herbaceous perennial grows fast and forms a low mat. Kew lists its native range as Europe to the Caucasus and northern China. It has spread beyond its native range into Britain and Ireland. It also grows in parts of the United States and Newfoundland.

Garden plants often stand 0.25–0.75 feet (0.08–0.23 metres) tall. They spread about 1–2 feet (0.30–0.61 metres) wide. RHS gives larger upper limits of 1.6 feet (0.5 metres) tall and 3.3 feet (1 metre) wide. Sprawling stems root where they touch soil, so mats can keep spreading. Upright stems are hollow and hairy, with branches near their bases. The soft, egg-shaped leaves grow in opposite pairs. Their wrinkled surfaces have rounded teeth and large silver patches. Crushed leaves may give off an unpleasant smell. Plants may keep their leaves where winters stay mild. RHS describes the foliage as deciduous elsewhere.

Small, two-lipped flowers cluster at the ends of stems. Their colours include purple-red, pink and white. Bloom starts in late spring and carries into summer. NC State also records flowers lasting into fall. The fruit is a triangular schizocarp. Both the flowers and silver-marked leaves add interest to shaded beds.

Give this plant deep or partial shade in a sheltered spot. It grows best in evenly moist soil that drains well. Soil rich in organic matter suits it well. It accepts acid, neutral and alkaline soils across several soil types. It can cope with dry soil, but drought may scorch leaves. Too much sun can also cause scorch. Avoid wet or compacted ground, which does not suit its roots. High heat and humidity can leave bare patches in plantings. NC State lists USDA zones 3a–8b; RHS rates it H7.

Use it beneath shrubs or roses, along borders, or on slopes. It also suits containers and wildlife gardens. Keep it away from paths that receive much foot traffic. Its quick spread gives cover, yet NC State describes it as easy to control. Deer resistance adds to its value in gardens. Cut plants back after flowering to renew leaf cover. Divide clumps in autumn or early spring to make more plants. Care needs are low, and RHS reports few pest or disease problems. Aphids and slugs can still cause trouble, according to NC State.