Purple Deadnettle: The 40th Flower of Spring!

*** First Place Winner at the Jackson County Fair! ***

The countless varieties of flowers in the world simply amazes me. And yet, right here on my property, there exists an astonishing range in size, color, and shape. Today's flower is one of the weird ones that takes a moment to truly appreciate. When I first saw a Deadnettle a few years ago, I thought that this whole thing was the blossom. It makes sense though, just look at those beautiful, fuzzy, purple and green leaves! What a show!! But the actual flowers are the gorgeous pink and magenta blossoms with their hairy, hot-pink hats! Aren't these flowers amazing?!

Growing low to the ground and usually in clusters, Purple Deadnettle--also known as Purple Archangel or Red Henbit--is native to Europe and Asia, but is now found at low elevations in many areas of the United States and is considered an invasive weed. Although it appears similar to nettle, it's neither related nor does it sting; thus its name, "deadnettle". The flowers, stems and leaves of young plants are very nutritious and can be used in salads and stirfrys! :D It has many medicinal uses as well, including an astringent, diuretc, blood coagulant, and laxative, to name just a few! WOW!

If you would like to know more about this flower, Wiki has a page here: Deadnettle (Lamium purpureum)

This image was taken in April, 2012.