Dalmatian Deadnettle
lamium garganicum
Also known as: ["Dalmatian Deadnettle","Glandular Deadnettle"]
Overview
A low-growing perennial herb with attractive, silver-patterned leaves and small, hooded flowers, native to the Balkans.
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 garganicum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, borders, or containers in partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining; avoid heavy, water-retentive soils.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter; can tolerate average garden soil.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done anytime; more significant 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 or partial shade; 4–6 hours of morning sun or filtered light is ideal.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching; protect from intense afternoon sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Avoid harsh direct sun; provide dappled light; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil drains well; avoid compacted soil; enrich with organic matter if needed.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler conditions but avoids extreme heat.
Keep away from drafty areas; maintain consistent temperatures; adjust care based on seasonal changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; stop in winter.
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.
- 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 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
Pruners, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim back leggy stems, remove dead leaves, and shape the plant as needed.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged foliage.
Tools
Pruners or sharp scissors, clean cutting surfaces.
Checklist
Clean tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape the plant; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., 2 inches wider in diameter); ensure good drainage.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
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 gently; water after repotting.
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 reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away to prevent waterlogging.
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, leaf drop, or yellowing in excessive heat; stunted growth or browning edges in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to root rot in damp conditions.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; ensure proper drainage to avoid waterlogged soil.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may become stunted due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growing 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 to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLamium garganicum is not considered toxic to cats. It does not produce adverse physiological effects when ingested by felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicLamium garganicum is not considered toxic to dogs. It does not produce adverse physiological effects when ingested by canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicLamium garganicum is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested in typical quantities.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lamium garganicum 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: What are the common problems with this plant?
A: Common issues include yellow leaves, wilting, and leaf spots.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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