Lamium galeobdolon

Dead nettle is an herbaceous, spreading perennial in the Lamiaceae (mint) family that grows rapidly up to nearly 2 feet in height and width. This plant blooms in late spring to early summer and is used as ground cover in woodland or shaded areas. This plant does well in dry shade where nothing else will grow. Stems root when they touch the ground, meaning this plant can become aggressive and weedy if not contained. 

This plant is tolerant of drought, prefers full shade to partial shade, and is intolerant of full sun. Pruning to 6" will keep it from getting leggy. It is propagated by division in spring or by terminal spring cuttings. Plants should be spaced 12-18" apart. L. galeobdolon 'Variegatum', a cultivar, has .

Quick ID Hints:

• Herbaceous ground cover with ovate, toothed, or notched leaves
• Opposite silver leaves have green edges or are entirely green
• Yellow flowers are hooded and 2-lipped, lower lip is 3-lobes

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: This plant is relatively disease free, but snails and slugs may be a problem. This plant can be quite weedy and spread aggressively through runners.  In the western part of the country this plant is listed as invasive, so alternatives should be considered.