Self-heal
prunella vulgaris
Also known as: ["Allheal","Heart-of-the-earth","Swine's succory"]
Overview
A low-growing, herbaceous plant with creeping stems and small, tubular flowers that grow in dense spikes. It is known for its medicinal properties and ability to thrive in various conditions.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","low maintenance","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Prunella |
| Botanical Name: | Prunella vulgaris |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Loamy, well-draining soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering or every 2–3 months as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate pruning.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of direct sunlight or bright indirect light). Adjust based on intensity; prefers morning sun and afternoon shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching. In hot climates, provide shade during peak afternoon hours. Indoors, place near an east-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade
Morning sun is best; avoid harsh afternoon sun; rotate plants for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days
Water deeply to encourage root growth; avoid waterlogging; adjust based on weather and soil conditions.
Soil
moist, well-drained loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; enrich with compost; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates cooler conditions but may struggle in extreme heat.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months
Use weak fertilizer solutions; fertilize during active growth; stop in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
- Provide indirect light.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
Warm, humid, and partially shaded conditions.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or perlite and peat moss.
Hormone
Optional, but can help speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; avoid direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or shear lightly to shape.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or spent flowers; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot).
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease apart roots; place in slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution. Water until it drains from the bottom, but avoid pooling. Early morning watering is ideal to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Increase frequency during hot, dry periods; reduce in winter.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or organic matter for fertility; mix perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; mulch to insulate roots; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may stall in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; improve air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Apply every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPrunella vulgaris is not considered toxic to cats. The plant is generally safe for feline consumption, though large quantities may lead to mild gastrointestinal issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Non-toxicPrunella vulgaris is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant is generally safe for canine consumption, though large amounts may cause mild digestive upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Non-toxicPrunella vulgaris, commonly known as self-heal, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, excessive consumption may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to its astringent properties.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Prunella vulgaris edible?
A: Yes, Prunella vulgaris is edible and has been used in traditional medicine for its healing properties.
Q: Does Prunella vulgaris attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: How should Prunella vulgaris be cared for?
A: It requires very little maintenance, thriving in partial shade to full sun and tolerating a range of soil types.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days |
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