Purple Dead-nettle
Lamium purpureum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
4"–12" H × 4"–8" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AR
Pollinators
bees, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Purple dead-nettle is a low-growing annual wildflower with heart-shaped leaves and small purple flowers that bloom from spring through fall. This compact plant forms small patches and provides continuous color in partially shaded areas with minimal care required.
In an HOA neighborhood
Purple Dead-nettle takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Commonly considered a weed by most homeowners
- Can spread unpredictably and look untidy
- May be confused with invasive ground ivy
Wildlife value
The long blooming period makes this plant valuable for bees and flies throughout most of the growing season. Its early spring flowers are particularly important for pollinators when few other nectar sources are available.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Purple Dead-nettle fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.