Red Dead Nettle
Lamium purpureumfam. Lamiaceae
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Pl. 5BD4 — Lamium purpureum
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IOverview
Overview
Red Dead Nettle (Lamium purpureum) is a member of the mint family (Lamiaceae), known for its distinctive purple-tinged leaves and erect habit. Native to Iran, this annual plant thrives in moist, light to heavy soils with a pH range of 7–7.5, making it adaptable but preferring well-drained conditions. The plant is valued both as an edible and medicinal herb; its tender leaves are edible and can be used fresh or dried. Red Dead Nettle also has historical uses in traditional medicine, where it is known for its cooling properties and ability to aid in the treatment of fevers and respiratory issues. One distinctive feature of this plant is its light greenish-white flowers that contrast with the purple-tinged foliage, creating a visually appealing ornamental addition to gardens or natural landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Red Dead Nettle?
Red Dead Nettle (Lamium purpureum) is a member of the mint family (Lamiaceae), known for its distinctive purple-tinged leaves and erect habit. Native to Iran, this annual plant thrives in moist, light to heavy soils with a pH range of 7–7.5, making it adaptable but preferring well-drained conditions.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Red Dead Nettle support blend
generaltea
AI returned a direct ingredient list; normalized into one draft blend for editorial review.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Red Dead Nettle thrives in moist conditions and prefers light to heavy soils with a pH of 7–7.5. It requires partial shade to full sun, with moderate light exposure. This annual plant grows up to 0.3 meters tall and is hardy in temperate regions from zones 4-8. For best results, keep the soil consistently moist and provide ample water, especially during dry spells. Propagate through seeds or division of established plants. Harvest the leaves for culinary use throughout the growing season.
Light
7/10
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Life cycle
Annual
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.3 m tall
Soil pH
7–7.5
Seasonal calendar
Northern hemisphere · UTC month is September
winterspringsummerautumnwinter
BloomJFMAMJJASOND
For first-time growers
How to grow Red Dead Nettle for the first time
8steps
Start with Red Dead Nettle as an easy-to-grow herb for beginners.
- 1
What you'll need
Red Dead Nettle seeds or young plants, a small trowel, and a watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Red Dead Nettle in spring after the last frost or in early fall.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Prepare soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) with a pH of 7–7.5. Ensure good drainage for best results.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the garden or start them indoors and transplant young plants after all danger of frost has passed.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist. Keep the area free from weeds by light weeding.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide regular watering, especially during dry periods. Deadhead flowers to encourage more growth and prevent self-seeding.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune back plants in late winter to early spring to maintain shape and promote new growth.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, not deadheading, planting too deep, neglecting to prune, and using incorrect soil pH.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: Red Dead Nettle leaves are edible and can be consumed raw or cooked. They are often used in salads for their slightly bitter taste or added to soups and stews. The leaves can also be dried for later use. Skip the flowers, focusing on the tender young leaves for best flavor.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 30 native
Europe19 regions
native (19)AlbaniaAustriaBelarusBelgiumBulgariaDenmarkFinlandFranceGermanyGreeceHungaryIrelandItalyNorwayPolandPortugalRussiaSpainUnited Kingdom
Asia1 region
native (1)Iran
Africa2 regions
native (2)AlgeriaMorocco
Broader regions
native:East Aegean Is., Baltic States, Czechoslovakia, Føroyar
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Lamiaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Lamiaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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Growing zone
XII
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