Common Henbit

(Lamium amplexicaule)

Common Henbit (Lamium amplexicaule)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Lamium amplexicaule, commonly known as Common Henbit, is an annual herb native to Europe, Asia, and northern Africa, often found in disturbed sites, along roadsides, and in agricultural fields. It typically reaches 4-10 inches in height and features soft, finely hairy stems. The leaves are rounded, opposite, and have a lobed margin. The plant produces pink to purple flowers in the spring, which are quite showy and attract pollinators such as bees. Common Henbit is a member of the mint family, which is evident in its square stems and the aromatic nature of the foliage when crushed.

Common Henbit is valued for its early spring flowers and its ability to attract pollinators. It is often used in wildflower gardens and as a ground cover in informal settings. In cultivation, it prefers full sun to part shade and can tolerate a range of soil types, though it thrives in moist, well-drained soils. It is a self-seeding plant, which can lead to it spreading rapidly in the garden. While it can be invasive outside its native range, it is also considered a beneficial weed in agricultural settings, as it can provide early forage for pollinators.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.5-1 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Pink, Purple
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Native to disturbed sites, roadsides, and agricultural fields in Europe, Asia, and northern Africa

Other Names

Common Names: Henbit Deadnettle, Giraffehead, Henbit, Greater Henbit

Scientific Names: , Lamium amplexicaule, Galeobdolon amplexicaule, Lamiella amplexicaulis, Lamiopsis amplexicaulis, Lamium amplexicaule f. amplexicaule, Lamium amplexicaule subsp. album, Neckeria amplexicaulis, Pollichia amplexicaulis,

GBIF Accepted Name: