Narrowleaf hempnettle
Galeopsis angustifolia · Lamiaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant narrowleaf hempnettle: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Type
- Annual or biennial herb
- Mature height
- 20 to 60 cm tall
- Foliage
- Deciduous, narrow and lanceolate leaves
- Flowering
- Summer to early autumn (July-September)
- Hardiness
- Hardy, tolerates cold well
- Origin
- Europe, temperate and mountainous zones
Care
Watering
Water moderately, keeping the soil fresh but not waterlogged. Galeopsis prefers slightly moist conditions during the growing season. Reduce watering in winter or let natural rainfall do the work if the plant is outdoors.
Light exposure
Place the plant in full sun or partial shade. It adapts well to semi-shaded areas and tolerates even moderate light conditions. Avoid very dark zones that would slow down flowering.
Soil
Galeopsis is undemanding and tolerates ordinary soils, even poor ones. Proper drainage is important to prevent root asphyxiation. Slightly acidic to neutral soil is ideal.
Fertilizer
No fertilizer is generally necessary, even in poor soils. A light application in spring can stimulate growth, but the plant grows naturally without supplementation.
Pruning and maintenance
Pinch back stems at the beginning of growth to encourage a more compact and bushy form. Remove spent flowers to prolong flowering. Leave some stems in place if you want natural self-seeding.
Diseases and pests
This species is generally robust and rarely affected by diseases. Watch for powdery mildew in case of stagnant humidity. Good drainage and air circulation prevent most fungal problems.
Did you know?
Narrow-leaved galeopsis is a pioneer plant that naturally colonizes disturbed land and wastelands. In traditional European phytotherapy, several Galeopsis species (particularly G. tetrahit) have been used to prepare herbal teas or remedies, though their use is now poorly documented scientifically.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- ThymeThymus vulgaris
- LavenderLavandula angustifolia
- SageSalvia officinalis
- BasilOcimum basilicum
- RosemarySalvia rosmarinus
- BugleAjuga reptans
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.