Deadnettle (Lamium)
[LAY-mee-um]

Semi-Evergreen Perennial Low, Spreading Groundcover in the Lamiaceae Family
Low, spreading perennial groundcover for shady spots, prized for its patterned foliage.

Lamium (Deadnettle) is a genus in the mint family (Lamiaceae) with roughly 30 species ranging from upright annual weeds to low, trailing perennial groundcovers. The Deadnettles carried at North Shore Plant Club are drawn from the ornamental, shade-tolerant perennial side of the genus -- primarily Lamium maculatum (Spotted Dead Nettle) and Lamium galeobdolon (Yellow Archangel) -- grown for their attractively patterned foliage and low, spreading habit under trees and shrubs.

Pros

  • Low, spreading groundcover for shady spots where many perennials struggle
  • Attractive, often silver-patterned foliage that brightens dark corners
  • Fast-filling and low-maintenance once established
  • Deer- and rabbit-resistant

Cons

  • Can spread aggressively if not kept in check, especially the yellow-flowered Lamium galeobdolon
  • Foliage has an unpleasant odor when crushed
  • Dislikes hot afternoon sun and wet, waterlogged soil
Highlights A shade-garden workhorse: fast-filling, low-maintenance groundcover with attractively patterned foliage, happiest tucked under trees and shrubs where little else thrives.
 

Plant Data

Growth Rate Fast
Sun Exposure Full Shade - Partial Shade
Moisture Tolerance Medium : Tolerant of some drought once established, but does not tolerate compacted or waterlogged soil -- wet soil risks crown and stem rot.
Tags Deer Resistant, Full Shade, Good for Spring Containers, Medium, Partial Shade, Perennial
Foliage Color
 

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