White Dead-nettle
lamium album
Also known as: ["White Archangel","Bee Nettle","White Henbit"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with white, hooded flowers and heart-shaped leaves, often found in woodlands and hedgerows.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Lamium |
| Botanical Name: | Lamium album |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or border in partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
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 control size or shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or partial shade; 4–6 hours of sunlight per day; adjust for intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun; protect from harsh afternoon sun; place in dappled shade outdoors or near an east-facing window indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Avoid direct midday sun; rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during peak summer hours.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, moderately fertile soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid compacted soil; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler spring and fall conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; maintain moderate humidity in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Always water before fertilizing to prevent root burn; use a balanced NPK ratio; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are the most common method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; cut stems just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, or your fingers for small stems.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or diseased stems first; shape the plant as desired; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., 2 inches wider in diameter); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for maintaining vigor.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once 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 leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to frost damage in freezing conditions.
Solution: Protect from frost with a frost cloth; move potted plants indoors; avoid sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering due to excessive heat and dry conditions.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLamium album is not considered toxic to cats. The plant is generally safe for feline consumption, though excessive ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Non-toxicLamium album is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant is generally safe for canine consumption, though excessive ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Slightly ToxicLamium album, commonly known as white dead-nettle, is generally considered non-toxic but can cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort if consumed in large amounts. The plant contains small amounts of alkaloids and tannins, which may contribute to its mild toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lamium album toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does White Dead-nettle attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees and butterflies.
Q: How easy is it to grow?
A: It is easy to grow and requires minimal maintenance.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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