Purple deadnettle, Red deadnettle, and Purple lamium

Purple Deadnettle History and Folkore

Lamia- laimos “throat, gullet”

Purple Deadnettle in the Garden

Deadnettles have square stems characteristic of the mint family and purple deadnettle’s stem is usually only about 3 inches long and covered. The fuzzy leaves of Lamium purpureum are arranged on the stem to give the plant the appearance of a tiny Christmas tree with greener leaves near the bottom and more purply leaves at the top. The flowers are dark pinky – purple and labiate. The upper petals are fused into a sort of hood and the lower petals look like lips surrounding a deep throat.

You will find this plant growing in colonies around the shady edges of disturbed areas, lawns and gardens, though it can tolerate some sun.

henbit deadnettle and cut-leaved deadnettle are sometimes mistaken for this plant. It is said that it is called deadnettle because it looks like stinging nettle but lacks its sting. I don’t think this particular species of lamium looks anything like stinging nettle but others, like white deadnettle do look a bit like it.

Purple Deadnettle prefer and

Purple Deadnettle in the Kitchen

Lamium purpureum for Healing

Purple Deadnettle Magick

Purple deadnettle is an exceptionally useful plant for generally lifting to the mood and improving tempers. A floor wash or incense made using this herb can be used to bring joyful energy to a space and prevent or calm quarrels.

Feuding neighbors would do well to share a pot of red deadnettle tea as they settle their disputes and establish boundaries to prevent further arguments. But not too strong as it may have a laxative effect in large quantities.

Consider carrying some red deadnettle or adding it to a salve or body splash to keep your good mood while going out among folks who like to spread misery about. You know the folks I mean.