Common Self Heal Prunella vulgaris subsp. lanceolata

Prunella vulgaris subsp. lanceolata, or Selfheal, is a short, perennial wildflower in the mint family that can be recognized by its erect, flowering spikes and hairy bracts. It is a low growing plant produces dense clusters of flowers each with an intricate two petal arrangement, the upper petal forming a hood, and all in shades of purple and lavender. 

This very adaptive plant can be grown under most soil, light and PH conditions, but it prefers full to partial sun and moist to slightly dry soil that is rich in organic content. It can be grown in full sun but may need some shade in hot dry conditions.

The leaves can be eaten cooked or raw.  They are used in stews, soups, and salads.  Wash the leaves to remove the bitter-tasting tannin (yellowish-brown bitter-tasting organic substance) prior to eating. An olive-green dye can be extracted from the flowers and stems.   

Propagate from seed or by dividing in spring or fall.  New plants should be kept moist their first year. The plant tolerates some drought, but prolonged dry spells will cause it to drop lower leaves and turn greenish yellow. This plant is a good ground cover in sunny sites, but it can become rather weedy and aggressive.

Two varieties of this species are known, with lanceolata being taller and erect, native to North America, and with lanceolate leaves. Prunella vulgaris subsp. vulgaris is a lawn weed introduced from Eurasia.

Insects, Diseases and Other Plant Problems:  

Its tendency to profligate in damp, moist conditions may cause it to become a troublesome weed in turf with the same conditions.