Common Selfheal
Prunella vulgaris var. lanceolata
Common Selfheal is a charming perennial in the mint family that erupts in spikes of purple flowers in spring and reblooms until late summer. It gets its name from its unique tradition as a medicinal plant and is edible in a variety of ways. It can handle an array of growing conditions and thrives in moist environments. Consider this delightfully cheery plant as a native alternative to Ajuga, or as a floriferous ground cover. There are two forms of this plant – a non-native species from Europe that is common in lawns, and a beautiful native variety.
Conditions: Full sun to part shade; average soil
Size: 1′ – 2′ tall, 1′ – 3′ spread
Zone: 3 – 7
Wildlife Value: Flowers attract many bees and butterflies; larval host for the Clouded Sulphur butterfly
