Also known as Dead Nettle · 690 saves
Lamium
Lamium, the genus most gardeners know as dead nettle. We track 19 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 18 most-saved Lamium varieties
Browse all 19 Lamium varieties →
2 species of Lamium
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Lamium in Sow
Save the Lamium you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Lamium
Whats common across all Lamium varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 19 most-grown of them.
The Lamium year
- DivideMarch, April and September89% of varieties
Divide every 2-3 years to control spread and maintain vigor
- PruneMay–July84% of varieties
Cut back leggy stems mid-summer to refresh foliage
- Spring CleanupFebruary and March63% of varieties
Rake away old or damaged foliage before new growth emerges
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
- Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape
- Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
- Prune back in early spring to encourage bushier growth
- Water consistently during dry periods 🌱
Avoid
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
- Don’t place in full sun, which can scorch leaves
- Refrain from heavy fertilizing which can cause legginess
What goes wrong with Lamium
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Sticky residue and distorted leaves | Encourage natural predators or spray with insecticidal soap |
| Slugs | Chewed leaves and slime trails | Use organic slug bait or copper tape |
| Generally pest-free | No significant insect damage is typical | Monitor only; nothing here limits its spread |
| Powdery Mildew | White powdery coating on leaves | Improve air circulation and apply neem oil |
| Root rot | Wilting and browning of foliage | Improve drainage and avoid overwatering |
| Root Rot | Wilting and yellowing leaves | Ensure well-drained soil and reduce watering |
Making more Lamium
Division
- Dig up mature clumps in early spring or fall.
- Separate into smaller sections with roots attached.
- Replant immediately at the same depth.
- Water thoroughly after planting.
- Allow 6 weeks for new growth to establish.
Cuttings
- Take semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer.
- Dip cut end in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist, well-draining soil or perlite.
- Keep in warm, humid environment for 6 weeks.
Lamium questions
How many types of Lamium are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 19 distinct Lamium varieties. The most popular — ranked by 690 real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Lamium grow in?
Across its varieties, Lamium covers USDA Zones 4–9. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Lamium bloom?
Most Lamium varieties bloom in late spring to early summer, late spring, mid-spring. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Lamium should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.