Hemp Nettle
galeopsis tetrahit
Also known as: ["Lamium tetrahit","Common Hemp-nettle"]
Overview
A herbaceous annual plant in the mint family, known for its square stems and two-lipped flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Galeopsis |
| Botanical Name: | Galeopsis tetrahit |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering or every 4–6 weeks during the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove spent flowers and trim leggy stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or partial shade; 4–6 hours of sunlight per day, with protection from intense midday sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to outdoor sunlight; provide shade during peak sun hours; avoid direct sunlight for extended periods.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near hot windows.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in cool conditions.
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 heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 60–70°F (15–21°C); tolerates cooler nights but avoids extreme heat.
Avoid placing near heating/cooling vents; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, dip in rooting hormone (optional), plant in medium, keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light and consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or perlite and peat moss mixture.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity around cuttings; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or use clean shears to cut just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to encourage bushier growth and remove spent flowers to promote reblooming.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, prune after flowering, remove dead/damaged growth, shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage.
Method
Gently remove plant, trim roots if necessary, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for maintaining vigor.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots if needed, use fresh soil, water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution without wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain away completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in response to extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or damage if exposed to prolonged cold below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location, protect from drafts, and avoid sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may cease in excessive heat above 80°F (27°C).
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, and ensure adequate watering to combat heat stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset and skin irritation if they come into contact with or ingest Galeopsis tetrahit. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, Galeopsis tetrahit can cause mild gastrointestinal upset and skin irritation upon contact. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can lead to discomfort if ingested in significant quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicGaleopsis tetrahit, commonly known as hemp nettle, contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and allergic reactions in humans. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can be problematic for sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Galeopsis tetrahit toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How difficult is it to grow?
A: It is relatively easy to grow with low maintenance needs.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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