Introduction to Lamium maculatum: Origin, names and main characteristics
Lamium maculatum, popularly known as spotted nettle, dead nettle or chuchameles, is a perennial herbaceous plant widely appreciated for its ability to cover the ground quickly, its resistance, and its attractive ornamental value. This species belongs to the family Lamiaceae (the labiates), the same as mint and sage. Native to regions of Europe, the Near East and North Africa, has adapted perfectly to diverse conditions, becoming a reference plant for decorating gardens, undergrowth and shaded or semi-shaded spaces.
The gender lamium It is made up of about 30 species, among which stand out, for example, lamium album, Lamium galeobdolon y Lamium purpureumThe term "maculatum" means spotted, referring to the distinctive spots on the plant's leaves, which can be white, silver, or pale, depending on the variety. Unlike true nettles, Lamium maculatum does not cause hives on contact, making it a safe choice for family gardens.
Botanical characteristics of Lamium maculatum
- Bearing and morphology: It is a creeping plant which rarely exceeds 20-30 cm in height, but is capable of spreading considerably in width, forming dense carpets.
- Sheets: Its leaves are oval or triangular, with a serrated edge and a slightly rough surface. The most striking feature is the central stain in silver, white or light tones.
- Flowers: Flowering occurs in terminal inflorescences with tubular flowers in colors ranging from purple to deep pink and white. The flowers resemble a small snapdragon.
- Estate: Develops superficial roots and aerial roots on the stems which, when they come into contact with the soil, allow the propagation and expansion of the plant.
- Height and size: It can reach up to 36 cm in optimal conditions, although it is more common to find shorter and more spread-out specimens.
There are varieties such as Lamium maculatum 'Beacon Silver', with practically silver leaves and intense fuchsia flowers, which are especially appreciated in gardening for their luminosity and ornamental value.
Diversity of vernacular names according to region
- English: Stink nettle, honeysucker, spotted nettle
- Portuguese: Chucha-pitos, chuchas, coelhos
- Galician: Chuchameles, dead nettle
- Asturian: Cuquiellu pants, nettle chick, roosters
- Basque: Asun borta, asuñborta
- Catalan: Lami maculat
scientific classification
- Domain: eukarya
- Supergroup: Archaeplastida
- Phylum: Chloroplastida
- Division: Streptophyta
- Subdivision: Spermatophytina
- Class: Magnoliopside
- Order: lamiales
- Family: Lamiaceae / Labiatae
- Gender: lamium
- Species: Lamium maculatum
Natural habitat and ecological distribution
Lamium maculatum It develops naturally in environments of undergrowth, river banks and humid forests of Europe and Western Asia. It is also found in urban areas, gardens and green spaces where it is used as ground cover due to its capacity for adaptation and rapid expansion.
- Altitude: Present from altitudes near sea level to heights above 1900 meters.
- Floors: tolerates acidic and basic soils, preferring well-drained soils rich in organic matter. It adapts to both calcareous and siliceous soils.
- Location: Common on roadsides, forest clearings, shady gardens and wet areas.
- Biological type: Hemicryptophyte, with replacement buds near the soil surface, which helps overcome adverse conditions.
Ornamental value and uses in gardening
Lamium maculatum It is a highly valued plant in Garden design for its ability to form dense and decorative tapestries under trees, shrubs or in areas where other ornamental species do not thrive. showy leaves y attractive flowers They provide color and luminosity even in shady or low-fertility corners.
- Ground covers for understory: Ideal for covering barren or difficult-to-maintain areas.
- Pots and planters: It can be grown in containers, although it requires more frequent watering.
- Bee and honey gardens: Its flowers attract bees, bumblebees and other pollinating insects, enhancing local biodiversity.
Biological cycle and flowering of Lamium maculatum
This plant begins its activity as soon as temperatures become milder. flowering It extends over warm months, ranging from March to October In temperate zones, flowers emerge from the second half of spring and can last until autumn if conditions permit.
- Flower color: Purple, pink, white or fuchsia depending on the variety.
- Fruit: After pollination, it produces small dry fruits that contain the seeds.
- Natural propagation: Through seeds and by rooting of creeping stems.
Optimal growing conditions
To ensure the vigorous development of Lamium maculatum In the garden or pot, it is essential to attend to certain environmental and management requirements:
- Light: It adapts very well to semi-shade and shade, although it can also thrive in full sun in mild climates. In areas with hot summers, it's best to avoid direct exposure during the hottest hours of the day.
- Temperature: It is resistant to cold and frost, although the leaves may disappear temporarily in extreme temperatures, sprouting vigorously again in the next favorable season.
- Floors: Prefer fresh substrates, rich in organic matter and well drainedA pH between 5,5 and 8 is optimal, showing good tolerance to both slightly acidic and alkaline soils.
- Humidity: It thrives best in environments with medium humidity. It's essential that the soil retain moisture without waterlogging.
- Salinity: It does not tolerate saline soils.
Planting, transplanting and recommendations for establishment
La plantation de Lamium maculatum It can be done at any time of the year, as long as the ground is not frozen or excessively dry. It is advisable to respect a distance of about 40 cm between specimens so that they can expand and cover the ground without excessive competition with each other.
- Land preparation: Add mature compost or worm castings to enrich the substrate.
- Planting in pots: Use a well-draining container, using universal substrate enriched with compost.
- Transplants: They are well tolerated as long as the root is kept moist during the operation and the plant is not exposed to direct sunlight after the change.
Irrigation: Frequency and practical tips
El regular watering It is essential for the proper development of Lamium maculatumThe substrate should always be kept slightly moist, avoiding both drought and excess water.
- Allow the topsoil to dry out before watering again, but do not let the plant go thirsty.
- In pots, watering frequency will be higher, especially in summer.
- Reduce watering in winter if the plant goes dormant or if rain is frequent.
Drought is one of the main stress factors for this species, affecting its development and the quality of its foliage.
Fertilization and fertilization
To maintain vigor and dense foliage, it is recommended pay at two key moments:
- At the end of winter: Apply organic fertilizer (compost, well-rotted manure or humus).
- Spring Season: A balanced mineral fertilizer will promote sprouting and flowering.
Avoid fast-release nitrogen-rich fertilizers, as they can promote soft growth that is susceptible to fungal diseases.
Pruning, maintenance and growth control
Although it does not require one systematic pruning, It is advisable:
- Remove flowers marchitas to stimulate new flowering and prevent plant exhaustion.
- Control horizontal growth cutting stems that invade unwanted areas or become excessively long.
- Reduce the density of the carpet if the plant becomes invasive in the garden.
Lamium maculatum can become invasive under conditions of fertile soil and constant humidity, so its spread should be monitored.
Pests, diseases and prevention
This species shows great resistance to pests and diseases, which minimizes the need for phytosanitary treatments. However, it is important to pay attention to:
- Drought: Main cause of weakening and wilting leaves.
- Excess humidity: It can cause root asphyxiation and fungal development.
- It is rarely attacked by aphids o snails, but it is advisable to monitor the appearance of these if the plant is weakened.
Maintaining good aeration of the carpet and avoiding waterlogging of the soil are the best preventive measures.
Multiplication and propagation of Lamium maculatum
The spread of Lamium maculatum It is very simple and efficient:
- Division of bushes: The fastest and most effective method. It can be done at any time, preferably in spring or fall.
- Cutting creeping stems: Stems that have already generated roots can be separated and planted directly in another location.
- Sowing seeds: Seeds can be collected and sown in spring, although this method is less common due to the ease with which it reproduces vegetatively.
In nature, dispersal occurs largely by myrmecory, that is, the seeds are transported by ants, which contributes to their colonization of new areas.
Popular varieties and cultivars of Lamium maculatum
- Lamium maculatum 'Beacon Silver': Silver leaves, fuchsia flowers.
- Lamium maculatum 'Elisabeth de Haas': Known for its resistance and particular coloration.
- Lamium maculatum 'Nancy's Red': Very showy, especially used in ornamental gardening.
- Overall, Lamium maculatum mix includes varieties with leaves and flowers of different colors, although availability may vary.
Advanced Gardening Tips for Lamium maculatum
- Control of invasiveness: Use borders, stone placement, or delimiters to prevent the plant from spreading beyond the desired area.
- Association with other plants: Excellent for combining with ferns, hostas, heucheras and other shade-tolerant species.
- Improving soil structure: Incorporate organic mulch each season to maintain moisture and prevent soil compaction.
- Vertical spaces: Some varieties can be grown in hanging baskets, taking advantage of their drooping and carpeting tendency.
Ecological importance and benefits
In addition to its ornamental values, Lamium maculatum It fulfills important functions in the ecosystem of gardens and green spaces:
- Promotes biodiversity by attracting pollinators.
- Prevents erosion and the development of weeds thanks to its dense root system and ground cover.
- Its cultivation contributes to maintain soil moisture and temperature, providing shelter for small invertebrates and beneficial microorganisms.
Lamium maculatum versus other ground cover species
Compared to other ground cover plants, Lamium maculatum stands out for its rapid expansion, cold resistance y versatilityUnlike species that prefer only sun or shade, it adapts to a wide variety of exposures. Its ease of cultivation and minimal maintenance requirements make it a better choice than other options, such as Glechoma hederacea variegata, which although more vigorous and suitable for hanging baskets, can become even more invasive.
Winter care and protection from the cold
Lamium maculatum It is extremely hardy. In regions with severe frost, it may lose its leaves, but it sprouts vigorously when temperatures rise. Recommended:
- Avoid excess water during winter rest.
- In very cold areas, apply a light layer of mulch to protect the base of the plant and the surface roots.
Ecological management and sustainable guidelines
In the current context, the ecological management of the garden is a priority. Lamium maculatum perfectly suited to low-impact practices:
- It does not require the usual chemical treatments, minimizing environmental pollution.
- Easy to handle without the need for machinery, ideal for organic orchards and permaculture gardens.
- It promotes soil health thanks to the decomposition of its leaves and stems.
The use of Lamium maculatum Transform any corner of the garden into a greener, healthier, and more vibrant space. Thanks to its low maintenance, rapid growth, and ornamental value, it's an irreplaceable option for providing beauty and functionality to areas where other plants struggle.
