Taxonomy of Spotted Dead Nettles:
Plant taxonomy classifies spotted dead nettles (or "deadnettle") as
Lamium maculatum. The
cultivar shown in the picture is 'White Nancy.'
Plant Type for Spotted Dead Nettles:
Spotted dead nettles are
evergreen perennials used as
ground covers.
Characteristics of Spotted Dead Nettles:
Lamium maculatum 'White Nancy' stays relatively short -- often less than a foot tall -- but spreads out to three times its height. It bears an attractive silvery
variegated foliage. These spotted dead nettles have white blooms, but other cultivars offer blooms with different colors. Spotted dead nettles are generally grown for their foliage, however, not their flowers. Spotted dead nettles are deer-resistant and slightly invasive.
Sun and Soil Requirements for Spotted Dead Nettles:
Plant spotted dead nettles in partial to full shade and in
acidic, well-drained soil. Good choice for dry shade.
Planting Zones for Spotted Dead Nettles:
Spotted dead nettles can be grown in
planting zones 4-8.
Uses for Spotted Dead Nettles in Landscape Design:
Spotted dead nettles are popular ground covers for shady areas. They are especially helpful for shady areas that have dry soil and/or where
deer control is an issue. The silvery foliage of these
shade plants makes them a good fit for landscape designs with creative color schemes. For color-scheme ideas, please see my gallery of
flower photos.
Medicinal Uses for Spotted Dead Nettles:
According to Botanical.com, dead nettles have been used as a vulnerary, that is, an herb for staunching wounds.
Yarrow plants have a similar usage history.
Don't Confuse Deadnettle With Stinging Nettles:
Deadnettle plants are flowering perennials. By contrast,
stinging nettles are noxious weeds (albeit edible).
