Self-heal
Prunella vulgaris · Lamiaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant self-heal: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Blooming
- June to September
- Adult size
- 20–50 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -15°C)
- Origin
- Europe, Asia, North America
- Soil type
- Ordinary, well-drained, undemanding
Care
Watering
Self-heal is very tolerant and requires little water once established. Water moderately when planting and during prolonged dry spells. It prefers soil that is neither too dry nor waterlogged; watering after planting is usually sufficient in temperate climates.
Exposure
Place self-heal in sun or partial shade for optimal flowering. It adapts to shadier areas but flowers less abundantly. This plant is very accommodating and tolerates varied conditions.
Pruning and cutting
Pinch back the stem tips in spring to encourage dense branching and a compact form. You can cut the plant back to ground level after flowering or in late winter to rejuvenate the clump. Pruning is not essential if you're happy with a natural shape.
Soil
Self-heal thrives in ordinary, poor to average soils as long as they're well-drained. It tolerates chalky, clay, or sandy soils. No specific fertility amendments are needed; it grows naturally in meadows and wasteland.
Fertilizing
No fertilizer is generally necessary. On impoverished soil, a light application of compost in spring can boost growth. Excess nitrogen promotes foliage at the expense of flowers.
Diseases and pests
Self-heal is very resistant and rarely affected by diseases or pests. Powdery mildew may occasionally appear in warm, humid conditions; ensure good air circulation. In prolonged waterlogged soil, root rot is possible.
Did you know?
Self-heal has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, particularly in Asia. Its Latin name 'Prunella' is believed to derive from the German word 'Brunelle,' meaning throat inflammation—the very condition the plant was used to treat. Today, botanists and herbalists continue to find it fascinating for its historically documented properties.
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.