Lamium purpureum aka Purple Deadnettle
Taxonomy ID: 12445
Lamium purpureum, also known as red dead-nettle, purple dead-nettle, or purple archangel, is an annual herbaceous flowering plant that is native to Europe and Asia. It grows up to 30cm in height and has square stems with green leaves that turn purplish at the top. The leaves have wavy to serrated margins and are 2-4cm long with a 1-2cm petiole. The zygomorphic flowers are bright red-purple with a top hood-like petal, two lower lip petal lobes, and minute fang-like lobes between. They may be produced throughout the year, making it a prominent source of pollen and nectar for bees. It is often found alongside Henbit Dead-nettle but can be distinguished by its stalked leaves on the flower stem. Though it resembles true nettles in appearance, it does not sting, hence the name "dead-nettle". It is considered invasive in the US. This plant can be useful, but if you need to get rid of it, you can simply put on gloves and gently pull it out with the root system or use a shovel for convenience.
Common names
Purple Deadnettle, Purple Archangel, Red Dead NettleMore information about Purple Deadnettle
How difficult is it to take care of Purple Deadnettle
Caring for Purple Deadnettle is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.
What is the region of origin of Purple Deadnettle
Purple Deadnettle’s native range is Europe, including Britain, from Norway south and east to the Mediterranean and Israel.
What are the water needs for Purple Deadnettle
Purple Deadnettle should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
What is the right soil for Purple Deadnettle
Purple Deadnettle loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
What is the sunlight requirement for Purple Deadnettle
To ensure optimal growth, the Purple Deadnettle prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
How to fertilize Purple Deadnettle
The Purple Deadnettle grows at a slow pace and doesn't require any supplementary fertilizers. By renewing its potting soil once a year, it should receive enough nourishment. Remember, plants obtain their energy from sunlight, not fertilizers.
Is Purple Deadnettle toxic to humans/pets?
Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.
More info:
Wikipedia
