Origin and Common Names
Lamium purpureum L. var. purpureum, commonly known as red dead-nettle, is a flowering plant of the mint family Lamiaceae. It is believed to have originated from Europe and Asia, and has become naturalized in many regions worldwide, including North America, Australia, and New Zealand.
Appearance
The plant typically grows up to 30-40 cm tall, with angular stems that are square in cross-section. The leaves are triangular to heart-shaped, with serrated edges, and are arranged opposite to each other along the stem. The flowers are pink to purple in color, and are arranged in whorls around the stem at the leaf nodes. The plant blooms from early spring to late autumn.
Uses
The leaves and flowers of Lamium purpureum are edible and can be used in salads or as a garnish. The plant has also been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including respiratory infections, diarrhea, and wounds. Additionally, the plant is sometimes used as a ground cover in landscaping due to its attractive appearance and ease of maintenance.
Light Requirements
Lamium purpureum L. var. purpureum thrives in partial to full sun exposure. The plant requires at least six hours of sunlight per day for optimal growth. Inadequate sunlight exposure results in slow growth, and the leaves may turn yellowish or pale. However, too much direct sunlight can lead to leaf burn or stunted growth.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers cool to moderate temperatures for growth. The optimal temperature for the growth of Lamium purpureum L. var. purpureum is between 15°C and 25°C. High temperatures may cause drought stress, causing the upper leaves to curl, turn brown, and dry out. Frost or extremely low temperatures will damage or kill the plant.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained, moist, and fertile soil. It grows well in soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.0. Lamium purpureum L. var. purpureum can tolerate a wide range of soil types, ranging from sandy to loamy soils. However, it does not thrive in compacted or waterlogged soils. The addition of organic matter to the soil before planting improves soil fertility and drainage, facilitating plant growth and development.
Cultivation
Lamium purpureum L. var. purpureum is a hardy plant species that can thrive in a range of soil types. However, for optimal growth, it is best to cultivate these plants in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. They should be grown in areas that receive partial shade or full sunlight, as these plants can adapt to different light conditions.
It is recommended to plant Lamium purpureum L. var. purpureum in the spring or fall. The seeds can be sown directly into the ground or started indoors and transplanted after the last frost date in your area. When planting, ensure that each plant is spaced at least 8-12 inches apart to allow room for it to grow and spread.
Watering Needs
Lamium purpureum L. var. purpureum requires frequent watering, especially during the growing season. These plants should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. A good rule of thumb is to water deeply once a week, allowing the water to penetrate the root zone of the plant. Avoid overhead watering, which can lead to fungal diseases. Instead, water at the base of the plant using a soaker hose or drip irrigation.
Fertilization
Lamium purpureum L. var. purpureum is not a heavy feeder and does not require frequent fertilization. However, adding a slow-release fertilizer to the soil during the growing season can help promote healthy growth. Apply the fertilizer according to the manufacturer's instructions and avoid over-fertilization, which can cause damage to the plant.
Pruning
Lamium purpureum L. var. purpureum does not require much pruning. However, deadheading the spent flowers can encourage the plant to produce more blooms. Additionally, pruning can be done to manage the plant's size or to remove any damaged or diseased branches. Prune these plants in the spring or after flowering has ended in the summer. Use clean, sharp pruning shears and make cuts just above a healthy leaf node.
Propagation of Lamium purpureum L. var. purpureum
Lamium purpureum L. var. purpureum, commonly known as Purple Deadnettle, is an attractive herbaceous plant that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. The plant possesses ornamental and medicinal values and has become popular among home gardeners. Propagation of L. purpureum can be done using several methods.
Propagation by Seed
The easiest way to propagate L. purpureum is through seed. The seeds of the plant can be directly sown into the prepared soil in spring or fall. The seeds require light to germinate, therefore, they should only be covered with a thin layer of soil.
For better germination results, seeds can be stratified by placing them in a container with moist soil and keeping it in a cool place for about a month before planting them in the ground.
Propagation by Division
Another method of propagating L. purpureum is by division. This method is commonly used when the plant outgrows its growing space or when rejuvenation is required. Division can be done in spring or fall.
To propagate the plant using this method, gently dig up the clump of the plant and separate the individual parts. Make sure each part has healthy roots for better survival. The new divisions can be replanted immediately in the desired location.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Lamium purpureum can also be propagated by stem cuttings. This method is useful when one wants to obtain the exact same genetic copy of the parent plant. Cuttings should be taken from healthy parent plants in spring or summer.
Choose stems that are healthy, free from diseases, and have no signs of pest infestations. Cut a stem with a sharp and sterile tool, ideally about 7 cm in length and remove all the lower leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it about 3 cm deep in a well-drained potting mix. Keep the soil moist and the container in a warm and sheltered place. The new plants can be transplanted to their permanent location after they have developed roots.
Disease and Pest Management for Lamium purpureum L. var. purpureum
Lamium purpureum L. var. purpureum, commonly known as red deadnettle, is a hardy plant that is resistant to many diseases and pests. However, there are still a few common issues that may arise that you should be aware of to properly protect and care for your plants.
Common Diseases
The most common diseases that affect Lamium purpureum L. var. purpureum are fungal diseases such as rust and powdery mildew. Rust appears as yellow or orange spots on the leaves, while powdery mildew looks like a white, powdery substance that covers the plants. Both diseases can cause significant damage to the plant if left untreated.
To manage these diseases, it is important to trim off any infected leaves and dispose of them to prevent further spread. Keeping the area around the plant clean and free of debris can also help prevent fungal diseases from taking hold. Fertilizing the plants with a balanced fertilizer can also help promote healthy growth and prevent fungal diseases.
Common Pests
The most common pests that attack Lamium purpureum L. var. purpureum are aphids and spider mites. Aphids are tiny insects that suck the sap from the plant, causing it to wither and die. Spider mites also feed on the sap of the plant but are much smaller and harder to detect.
To manage these pests, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control their populations. You can also use a strong jet of water to dislodge them from the plant. Removing any heavily infested leaves or stems can also help control the pests. Finally, make sure to keep the area around the plant clean and free of debris to minimize the chances of pests taking hold.
By being vigilant and keeping a close eye on your Lamium purpureum L. var. purpureum, you can ensure that it remains healthy and free from disease and pests.
