Family: Lamiaceae Genus: Lamium
Species: Lamium maculatum (L.) L.
Common Name(s): spotted dead-nettle, spotted henbit, variegated dead-nettle; (Spanish) ortiga muerta, ortiga fetida; (Galician) chuchameles
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Lamium maculatum, also known as spotted dead-nettle, is a flowering plant in the mint family (Lamiaceae). It is native to Europe and Asia, and has been introduced to other parts of the world. This hardy plant can thrive in a variety of soils and climates, and is often found in disturbed soils, such as along roadsides. It is characterized by its purple or pink flowers and triangular or heart-shaped leaves with distinctive silver or white spots.235
Etymology
Lamium is derived from the Greek word “laimos,” meaning throat, alluding to the throat-like appearance of the blossoms.
Maculatum is Latin for “spotted” or “marked.” This likely refers to the distinctive variegation or spotting often present on the leaves.
Despite the plant’s common name “spotted dead-nettle,” this plant is not a true nettle. Nettles are known for their stinging hairs, which contain irritants that can cause a painful, stinging sensation upon contact with the skin. Because this plant lacks stinging hairs, which makes it generally safe to handle, the word “dead” was added to distinguish it from true nettles.236
Traditional Medicine
Spotted dead-nettle does not have exceptional medicinal properties, but it has been used for its purifying, expectorant effects and as an intestinal regulator. Also, putting wet leaves on the nose as a plaster is said to help stop nose bleeds. Some wash their feet with water from the plant to provide relief and promote circulation.237
Gastronomy
Although the plant is seldom used for food due to its bitter taste and lack of culinary value, the flowers are edible and have a pleasant sweet flavor. In times of scarcity, the stems were consumed as vegetables. Placing wet leaves on top of meat prior to cooking softens the meat.238
Ecology
The flowers of the spotted dead-nettle are rich in nectar which attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies. However, this plant is not typically a preferred food source for most grazing animals due to its bitter taste.239
