Self-heal
prunella laciniata
Also known as: ["Prunella vulgaris var. laciniata","Cut-leaf Self-heal"]
Overview
A low-growing, creeping herbaceous plant with scalloped leaves and small, two-lipped flowers that grow in dense spikes.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Prunella |
| Botanical Name: | Prunella laciniata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a partially shaded area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering or every 2–3 months to keep compact.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of morning sun); tolerates dappled light in hotter climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to full sun; protect from intense afternoon sun; suitable for both indoor and outdoor shaded spots.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun preferred; avoid harsh afternoon rays; adjust based on season.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; enrich with organic matter; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Avoid over-fertilizing; fertilize less in winter; apply to moist soil to prevent root burn.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but can help speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or shear lightly; deadhead spent flowers to promote reblooming.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Clean tools; prune after flowering; remove dead or damaged stems.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; water after repotting; place in shade for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without saturating the soil. Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure; incorporate perlite for aeration; ensure proper drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf yellowing, or stunted growth in extreme heat; browning leaf edges in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged freezing conditions.
Solution: Provide frost protection; mulch around roots; move potted plants to a sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt or scorch; flowering may be reduced in excessive heat.
Solution: Increase watering; provide shade during peak sun; improve air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall).
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPrunella laciniata is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not pose a significant risk to felines, even if ingested in small to moderate amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Non-toxicPrunella laciniata is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant is not known to cause adverse effects in canines, even when ingested in small to moderate amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Non-toxicPrunella laciniata, commonly known as cutleaf selfheal, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, excessive consumption may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to its high fiber content and potential irritant effects on the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Prunella laciniata edible?
A: Yes, it is edible and has been used in traditional medicine for its healing properties.
Q: Does Prunella laciniata attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators with its flowers.
Q: How should Prunella laciniata be propagated?
A: It can be propagated by seed or division of its creeping stems.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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