Henbit Deadnettle
lamium amplexicaule
Also known as: ["Henbit","Greater Henbit"]
Overview
A low-growing annual plant with square stems, rounded leaves, and pink-purple flowers, often found in disturbed areas and lawns.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Lamium |
| Botanical Name: | Lamium amplexicaule |
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":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- 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: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, but generally every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- 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 midday sun; place in dappled shade outdoors or near a north-facing window indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, moderately fertile garden soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a pot with drainage holes; avoid overwatering; amend soil with organic matter for better structure.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but avoid prolonged freezing.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent room temperature indoors.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing if plant shows signs of distress.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are the most common method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting just below a leaf node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Cover with a plastic bag to maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture in the medium.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, plastic bags or propagation dome.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, clean tools to prevent disease; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide gentle warmth for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems to encourage branching; trim back leggy growth; remove spent flowers to promote reblooming.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged foliage.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, or your fingers for pinching.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune in early morning or evening; remove dead or diseased parts first; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one (about 2–3 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Remove the plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for maintaining vigor and growth.
Checklist
Select 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; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
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 minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
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 soil is loose and airy.
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 root damage in freezing conditions.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; move potted plants indoors; use mulch to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may become stunted in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; improve air circulation around the plant.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer label; dilute correctly; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid 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 amplexicaule is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not contain significant compounds that would cause harm to felines, even if ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicLamium amplexicaule is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain significant compounds that would cause harm to canines, even if ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicLamium amplexicaule, commonly known as deadnettle, contains small amounts of saponins which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested in large quantities. The plant is generally considered safe for minor consumption but should be avoided in large amounts due to potential irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Henbit Deadnettle toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How does Henbit Deadnettle spread?
A: It spreads via seeds and can quickly colonize disturbed areas.
Q: Does Henbit Deadnettle attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is a good source of nectar for bees and butterflies.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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