Nettle-leaved Deadnettle

lamium bifidum

Also known as: ["Deadnettle","Nettle-leaved Lamium"]

Family: Lamiaceae Genus: Lamium Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A perennial herbaceous plant with creeping stems and nettle-like leaves, native to Europe and parts of Asia.

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 bifidum

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: garden bed or container in partial shade
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Busy People (low Maintenance) Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with organic matter; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 2–3 months; major pruning annually or after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light 4–6 hours/day; tolerates partial shade; adjust for seasonal light changes.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun; place in dappled shade outdoors.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

easy

Sunlight

partial shade to full sun

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; avoid south-facing windows in summer.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid waterlogging; prioritize morning watering to prevent fungal growth.

Soil

well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).

Use a mix with good drainage; avoid compacted soil; refresh soil every 2 years.

Temperature

Ideal 60–75°F (15–24°C); prefers moderate temperatures; avoid extremes below 50°F or above 85°F.

Use a thermometer to monitor; group plants for microclimate benefits; adjust watering with temperature.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings in spring/summer.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in hormone (optional).
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and humid.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.

Environment

High humidity (70–90%), indirect light, and warm temperatures (65–75°F).

Medium

Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for drainage.

Hormone

Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.

Timeline

Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic bag; avoid direct sun.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips for bushiness; trim stems just above a leaf node.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or leggy growth to encourage bushiness; shape as needed for aesthetic or health.

Tools

Clean pruners or scissors, disinfectant.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; dispose of clippings.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before active growth begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil health.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without saturating; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the base of the plant, avoiding foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter; increase in summer. Adjust based on humidity and rainfall.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with chunky materials.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, or chlorosis in cold; scorching or stunted growth in heat.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root rot in cold, damp conditions.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid overwatering in cold weather.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may stall in excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; stop in dormant season.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly in spring/summer; cease in fall/winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Lamium bifidum can indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, potentially affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Lamium bifidum may result from water stress, either due to drought or waterlogging, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Lamium bifidum can be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and aesthetic damage to the plant.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Lamium bifidum is often caused by excessive moisture and poor drainage, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Lamium bifidum is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines after ingestion.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are necessary for cats that may come into contact with or ingest this plant.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Lamium bifidum is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported cases of adverse effects in canines after ingestion.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are necessary for dogs that may come into contact with or ingest this plant.
Humans
Non-toxic

Lamium bifidum is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It has not been documented to cause any significant adverse effects when ingested in typical amounts.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are necessary for human handling or consumption of this plant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Lamium bifidum toxic to pets?

A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.

Q: How much maintenance does it require?

A: It is low maintenance and requires minimal care.

Quick Reference
Family: Lamiaceae
Care: easy
Light: partial shade to full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["beginners","busy people (low maintenance)","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

Russian Sage
View
Hyssop Selfheal
View
Wild Clary
View
Swedish ivy, creeping Charlie, Swedish begonia
View