Bifid Dead-nettle (Lamium bifidum)

Bifid Dead-nettle

Lamium bifidum

Soft, low-growing groundcover with delicate blooms. Evergreen perennial herb; common name: Bifid Dead-nettle.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Prefers partial shade to full shade; tolerates dappled sunlight and avoids harsh midday summer sun
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Watering Water when the top 2 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Hardy to mild frosts; thrives in cool to temperate temperatures, avoid extreme heat above 28°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Small, ovate to heart-shaped leaves with slightly toothed margins and soft pubescence
  • Flower: Pale pink to white two-lipped flowers clustered in leaf axils
  • Stem: Creeping, rooting at nodes to form dense, spreading mats
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist during active growth periods

Fertilization

Apply diluted organic feed once monthly. Use nitrogen-balanced feeds to support foliage and bloom production

Composted banana peel tea:Steep fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 for root drench; discard solids to avoid pest attraction and odor
Pruning
  • Trim back spent flower stems to encourage extended blooming
  • Thin overcrowded mats to improve airflow and prevent fungal growth
  • Cut back leggy growth in late autumn to maintain a tidy mat form
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects on humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Shaded garden groundcover, erosion control for sloped areas