Deadnettle
lamium orvala
Also known as: ["Archangel","Spotted Deadnettle"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial plant known for its attractive foliage and flowers, often used in garden borders and ground cover.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Lamium |
| Botanical Name: | Lamium orvala |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden beds or containers in partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid heavy clay soils.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate average garden soil.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done anytime; major pruning in early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light to avoid scorching; place in filtered sunlight or dappled shade during peak summer hours.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct sun; avoid prolonged direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, and avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, fertile garden loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid overwatering to prevent compaction; amend with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); adaptable but thrives in moderate temperatures with slight cooling in winter.
Provide shade in extreme heat; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from frost.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for gentle feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are the most common and reliable method.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings, remove lower leaves, dip in hormone (optional), plant in medium, keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), indirect light, and consistent warmth around 70°F (21°C).
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting; use a mild rooting hormone powder.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle, plastic bags or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut stems just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers or damaged foliage.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, prune dead/damaged growth, shape as desired, dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if crowded, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation and fresh soil.
Checklist
Select new pot, prepare fresh soil mix, inspect roots, position plant correctly, water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation to a depth of 6–8 inches, and allow excess water to drain to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf discoloration (yellowing or browning), stunted growth, or bud drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback if exposed to prolonged temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, and avoid cold drafts or sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow in excessive heat above 85°F (29°C).
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, stop in dormant season.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLamium orvala is not toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects or physiological impacts on felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicLamium orvala is not toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects or physiological impacts on canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicLamium orvala is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with this plant.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lamium orvala toxic to pets?
A: No, Lamium orvala is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does Lamium orvala attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How much maintenance does Lamium orvala require?
A: It requires low maintenance and is relatively easy to care for.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
