Lamium maculatum (Spotted Dead Nettle)

Spectacular as a ground cover in the shade garden, Lamium maculatum (Spotted Dead Nettle) is a perennial plant whose appearance is unlike other perennial ground covers. With a long bloom period and colorful foliage, most varieties are eye-catching plants throughout the year. Their heart-shaped, trailing leaves, evergreen in mild winter climates, may be beautifully white or silver variegated. Their small, hooded magenta, pink or white flowers open in attractive whorls, which offer a lengthy floral display from mid-spring to early summer and continue sporadically into fall. Spotted Dead Nettle is typically used as a ground cover in shady areas and can cover large areas quickly.

• Grows up to 4-8 in. tall (10-20 cm) and spreads up to 3 ft. (90 cm).
• Best in part shade to full shade in average, medium moisture, humus-rich, well-drained soils. Dislikes high heat and humidity. Drought tolerant.
• Spotted Dead Nettle is a welcomed addition to shaded gardens, beds, and borders. Perfect for plantings under perennials or shrubs and as a groundcover or edging plant.
• Virtually disease and pest-free, Spotted Dead Nettle is also deer and rabbit-resistant.
• Propagate by division in autumn or early spring
• After flowering, plants can be cut back to encourage fresh foliage cover.
• Lamium maculatum species is native to Europe, temperate Western Asia, and North Africa. It can form a dense mound that overtakes the ground.
• Find where this species is invasive in the United States.
• Discover beautiful U.S. native plant alternatives.