Common selfheal - Prunella vulgaris (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Common selfheal

Also known as: Heart-of-the-earth, Blue curls

Common selfheal (Prunella vulgaris) is a flowering herb found in temperate habitats. It grows along roadsides, wastelands, and is also often planted in gardens. Young common selfheal leaves can be used as salad constituents or cooked in soups and stews. It is best to wash the bitter tannin off the leaves before eating them. An olive-colored dye can be made using the stems.

Scientific classification

Species

Common selfheal (Prunella vulgaris)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

30 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Blue, Purple, Violet

Flower Color

Green, Purple, Blue

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen, Semi-evergreen

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Common selfheal

Attributes of Common selfheal

Growth Rate

In the Spring and Summer months, common selfheal's rapid growth is reflected through accelerated leaf production, height gain, and prolific flowering. With noticeable daily increases, it demonstrates a heightened responsiveness to light and temperature, markedly enhancing its overall biomass. Particular interesting in horticulture, this rapid seasonal expansion contributes to common selfheal's effectiveness as a ground cover plant.

Distribution of Common selfheal

Distribution Map

Common selfheal is an exceptionally widespread species native to nearly all of the Northern Hemisphere. It has also been extensively introduced to South America and New Zealand. This grassland plant happily adapts to gardens, roadsides, and fields, but is classed as an invasive species on several Pacific islands, including Hawaii, and New Zealand.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Waste ground, grassland, woodland edges

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Commonly kept in butterfly and pollinator gardens, the common selfheal is also well adapted to lawns and rock gardens. It can be used in borders, groundcover, and may help control erosion in landscaping. It is also prized as an edible plant and will bloom throughout summer to fall. The common selfheal is well accompanied by creeping phlox, veronica, and campanula plants.

Symbolism

Be conscientious and diligent, be able to distinguish right from wrong, vitality, healing

Interesting Facts

According to a Chinese legend, a scholar developed depression and became sick from diligently studying poems and books in the heat of summer. His neck grew raised bumps that looked like broad beans. His disease was cured by a skillful doctor who had him take common selfheal. In order to repay the doctor, the scholar planted a large area of common selfheal for the benefit of the people.

Name Story

Common self-heal: The genus name, Prunella originates from the German word for quinsy. It is said that the name "self-heal" is inspired by its medicinal effect on a severe sore throat caused by tonsil abscess. The specific epithet, vulgaris meaning "common" indicates the plant's ubiquitous nature.

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Quickly Identify Common selfheal

Upright floral spikes reaching 2 feet (60 cm) tall.

Bilaterally symmetrical, purplish blue flowers with two distinct lips.

Distinctive four nutlets, dry and indehiscent, typically brownish.

Leaves 1-4 inches (2.5-10 cm) long, egg-shaped, with white undersides.

Long, slender stem with red tint, square cross-section, and smooth texture.

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Care Guide for Common selfheal

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Common selfheal thrives in moist, temperate regions, preferring evenly moist soil and moderate drought tolerance once established. Weekly watering maintains hydration, while outdoor cultivation benefits from mulching to retain moisture and regulate temperature, essential for vigorous growth during the season.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, common selfheal requires regular fertilization with a balanced nutritional solution every 4-6 weeks during the growing season, using one-quarter to one-half strength to avoid overloading. Monitor soil health and avoid fertilizing in extreme weather. Water thoroughly after application to enhance nutrient absorption.

Pruning: Common selfheal exhibits low-growing, creeping habits and purple flowers. Prune in early to late spring to promote dense growth and blooms. Trim stems post-flowering to prevent legginess and foster a second fall bloom. Promptly remove dead or damaged stems for improved growth and aesthetics.

Propagation: Common selfheal propagates best through cuttings in spring and summer, with new leaf growth signaling success. Regular watering and well-draining soil are essential for optimal propagation outcomes.

Repotting: Cultivating common selfheal involves nurturing a low-growing herbaceous plant suitable for diverse environments. Repot every 2-3 years in spring using a larger pot for root growth. Ensure adequate drainage, maintain consistent moisture, protect from harsh sunlight, and trim regularly for vigorous growth.

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Images of Common selfheal

Attributes of Common selfheal

Distribution of Common selfheal

Culture

Quickly Identify Common selfheal

Care Guide for Common selfheal

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