Origin and Common Names
Lamium purpureum L. var. incisum (Willd.) Pers. is a plant species that is native to Europe but has spread widely across the globe. It goes by several common names, including Cut-leaved Dead-nettle, Red Dead-nettle, Purple Dead-nettle, and Red henbit.
General Appearance
The Lamium purpureum L. var. incisum is a delicate annual or perennial plant that grows to a height of 5 to 20 cm. It has a square stem that is green or reddish-brown and finely haired. Its leaves are opposite, ovate, and slightly lobed with irregularly toothed margins. The flowers grow in the axils of the upper leaves, forming loose whorls around the stem. It blooms from March to November, producing pinkish-purple or reddish-purple funnel-shaped flowers that are about 1 cm long.
Uses
The Lamium purpureum L. var. incisum has several medicinal properties, including being anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and analgesic. Its leaves, which have a slightly lemony or minty scent, are edible, and they can be added to salads, vegetable dishes, or used to make tea. It is also used as a dye source for textiles. It is an important source of nectar for bees and other pollinators, making it an ideal plant in a garden or natural area.
Light Requirements:
Lamium purpureum L. var. incisum (Willd.) Pers., commonly known as cut-leaved dead-nettle, prefers partial shade to full sun but can also grow in full shade. It flourishes well under dappled canopy cover, especially when planted near hedges and bushes. It can handle direct sunlight, but only in cool temperatures and with sufficient humidity to prevent wilting.
Temperature Requirements:
Cut-leaved dead-nettle is a hardy plant that can tolerate frosts and freeze conditions during the winter season. It prefers cool summer temperatures ranging from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit, while temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit can cause heat stress in the plant. In areas where the temperature is high, it grows well if provided with partial shade and plenty of water.
Soil Requirements:
Lamium purpureum L. var. incisum (Willd.) Pers. prefers well-drained loamy soil that is rich in nutrients with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. It grows well in areas with moist soil that is not waterlogged. It can also tolerate sandy soils and drought conditions if provided with enough organic matter for growth. To boost the soil's organic matter content, add compost manure and leaf mold or use mulch to facilitate moisture retention.
Cultivation Methods
Lamium purpureum L. var. incisum (Willd.) Pers. is a hardy weed with a fast growth rate that can adapt to almost any soil type and light condition. However, it grows best in moist, well-drained, and slightly acidic soils with partial shade.
Propagation methods for this plant include sowing seeds directly in the ground or planting cuttings from the stem. It's essential to keep the soil moist for successful germination. The ideal temperature for seed germination is between 13-18°C.
While Lamium purpureum L. var. incisum (Willd.) Pers. adapts well to low moisture, it requires moderate watering in dry weather to keep the soil moist.
Watering Needs
Lamium purpureum L. var. incisum (Willd) Pers. requires a moderate amount of water for its growth. The watering needs depend on the soil and weather conditions. In general, it's best to water the plant deeply once a week and supplement with additional watering during hot and dry spells. It's crucial to avoid overwatering to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
Fertilization
Lamium purpureum L. var. incisum (Willd.) Pers. grows well in nutrient-rich soil. A top dressing of compost or manure in spring and early fall is sufficient to provide the plant with the nutrients it needs. Too much fertilization can result in excessive growth and could attract more pests. Therefore, it's crucial to avoid over-fertilizing.
Pruning
Lamium purpureum L. var. incisum (Willd.) Pers. doesn't require frequent pruning, as it can control its growth. However, it's essential to remove dead or diseased stems to promote new growth. Pruning is best done in the early spring or fall when the plant is dormant. If the plant has grown too dense, you can trim it back by 1/3 of its length to maintain its shape.
Propagation of Lamium purpureum L. var. incisum (Willd.) Pers.
Lamium purpureum L. var. incisum (Willd.) Pers. can be propagated through several methods, including seeds, stem cuttings, and division.
Propagation by Seeds
The easiest and most common method of propagating Lamium purpureum L. var. incisum (Willd.) Pers. is through seeds. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining seedbed, filled with a mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite, during the spring season. It is crucial to maintain a consistent soil moisture level until the seeds germinate.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Lamium purpureum L. var. incisum (Willd.) Pers. can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Take cuttings from an established plant in spring or early summer, about 4-6 inches long with healthy leaves and no flowers. Remove the leaves from the bottom 1-2 inches and dip the stem in rooting hormone powder. Plant the cuttings in a well-draining medium, keeping them moist and in a high-humidity environment until the roots develop.
Propagation by Division
The division method is ideal for an established plant that needs rejuvenation or expansion. In the early spring, carefully remove the entire plant and divide it into multiple segments, each with healthy roots and leaves. Immediately plant each section in its new location and water thoroughly.
Regardless of the propagation method, it is essential to provide consistent, adequate moisture and ensure the plant receives the proper amount of sunlight and nutrients to encourage healthy growth.
Disease and Pest Management for Lamium purpureum L. var. incisum (Willd.) Pers.
Lamium purpureum L. var. incisum (Willd.) Pers., commonly known as cut-leaved dead-nettle, is a herbaceous perennial plant that is generally low maintenance. However, like all plants, it is prone to certain diseases and pests that can cause serious damage if left unchecked. The following information will help you identify and manage potential problems before they become severe.
Common Diseases
Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease is characterized by a white powdery substance that appears on the surface of the leaves and stems. It can cause stunted growth and defoliation if left untreated. To manage powdery mildew, remove infected plant parts and dispose of them properly. Increase air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead watering, as this can promote the development of the disease. Fungicides may also be used in severe cases.
Botrytis Blight: Also known as gray mold, this fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves and stems that eventually turn gray and fuzzy. It can also cause flowers and buds to rot. To manage botrytis blight, remove all infected plant parts and dispose of them properly. Avoid overhead watering, increase air circulation, and apply a fungicide if necessary.
Common Pests
Aphids: These soft-bodied insects are small and green, brown, or black. They suck sap from the plant, causing the leaves to curl and distort. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge the insects. Alternatively, use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Ladybugs and lacewings can also be introduced to the garden to feed on aphids.
Spider Mites: These tiny arachnids are usually found on the undersides of leaves. They cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves, and can also produce fine webs. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge the mites. Apply insecticidal soap or horticultural oil, or introduce predatory mites to the garden to feed on spider mites.
By regularly monitoring your Lamium purpureum L. var. incisum (Willd.) Pers., you can catch diseases and pests early and prevent them from causing serious damage. Implementing proactive measures such as improving air circulation, avoiding overhead watering, and introducing natural predators can help keep your plant healthy and thriving.
