Spotted Dead Nettles - Lamium maculatum (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Spotted Dead Nettles

Also known as: Devil's Nettle, St Vincent's Nettle, Spotted henbit, Deadnettle

Spotted Dead Nettles is most often known as a ground cover plant that does well in the shade. It has a habit of growing low to the ground in cold seasons and tall if conditions are warm. Although its name sounds sinister, the spotted Dead Nettles does not sting or burn like other nettles - hence the term ‘dead’ nettle. One cultivar of the species produces yellow leaves rather than the characteristic green-and-silver ones.

Scientific classification

Species

Spotted Dead Nettles (Lamium maculatum)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Perennial, Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer

Bloom Time

Spring, Early summer, Mid summer, Late fall, Early winter

Harvest Time

20 cm to 80 cm

Plant Height

90 cm

Spread

Green, Silver, Gray, Red, Variegated

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Brown

Fruit Color

Pink, White, Purple, Red, Lavender, Violet

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Spotted Dead Nettles

Distribution of Spotted Dead Nettles

Distribution Map

Spotted Dead Nettles (Lamium maculatum) is native to the European mainland and parts of northern China. It has also been introduced into the United States and listed as an invasive species in Alaska and Kentucky. It is grown ornamentally in many parts of the US.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

From open grassland to woodland

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

The summer-blooming spotted Dead Nettles may be used as groundcover and underplanting, as well as within beds and borders. It is prized for being disease-free, with gardeners liking its resistance to deer and rabbits. Spotted Dead Nettles is enjoyed for the trailing heart-shaped leaves that still flourish in shady areas, making it suitable for shaded and woodland gardens.

Symbolism

Happiness, tenacity, survival in hard circumstances

Interesting Facts

Not all nettles are equal, and not all nettles sting. The spotted Dead Nettles provides the perfect ground cover, the leaves look similar to the stinging nettle, but you never have to worry about the sting. Leaves emit an unpleasant odor when smashed, but the defensive sting mechanism is not present in this garden-worthy specimen.

Name Story

Dead nettle||Spotted dead nettle: There are about 50 Lamium species in the mint family. It is commonly called dead nettle because its leaves resemble stinging nettles with no ability to sting. Furthermore, this near-evergreen plant is a low-growing creeper in mild climates. As the bilobate lower ones are whitish with purple dots on it, it is also called spotted dead nettle.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Spotted Dead Nettles, including the following common varieties :

Spotted dead nettle 'Elisabeth de Haas'Spotted dead nettle 'Chequers'Spotted dead nettle 'Purple Dragon'Spotted dead nettle 'White Nancy'Spotted dead nettle 'Beacon Silver'Spotted dead nettle 'Red Nancy'Spotted dead nettle 'Pink Pewter'

Quickly Identify Spotted Dead Nettles

Distinctive silver patches on vivid green leaves

Eye-catching silver blotch spanning leaf width

Lavender flowers with bilabiate structure

Clustered blooms in late spring to early summer

Crinkled leaves with rounded teeth, emitting odor when crushed

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Care Guide for Spotted Dead Nettles

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Spotted Dead Nettles thrives in consistently moist conditions typical of temperate regions, preferring evenly moist soil and tolerating brief droughts. For optimal growth, it should be watered weekly. Its spreading foliage aids in moisture retention, minimizing the need for frequent irrigation.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, spotted Dead Nettles requires balanced nutrition fertilizers applied every 4-6 weeks during spring to summer. This supports foliage and flower production. Reduce feeding in dormant fall to winter, ensuring even distribution and adherence to recommended dosages to enhance spotted Dead Nettles's vitality while preventing root damage.

Pruning: Spotted Dead Nettles thrives with regular pruning in early to late spring to remove dead stems and control growth. Post-flowering pruning can boost blooms. Clean tools to prevent disease, as consistent pruning enhances growth, air circulation, and helps maintain an attractive appearance.

Propagation: Spotted Dead Nettles propagates effectively through stem cuttings when humidity and warmth are high. Select healthy stems, cut below a node, and remove lower leaves. Use moist soil mixed with perlite for drainage. Maintain moisture and warmth; roots usually establish within a few weeks.

Repotting: Spotted Dead Nettles thrives as a ground cover and should be repotted every 2-3 years in spring for optimal growth. Use a wide, shallow container, keep the medium moist, and provide dappled sunlight to support recovery after repotting.

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Images of Spotted Dead Nettles

Distribution of Spotted Dead Nettles

Culture

Cultivars

Quickly Identify Spotted Dead Nettles

Care Guide for Spotted Dead Nettles

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