common selfheal

What it is

Prunella vulgaris (known as common self-heal , heal-all, woundwort, heart-of-the-earth, carpenter's herb, brownwort and blue curls) is an herbaceous plant in the genus Prunella.

Where and when to find it

Habitat

You can find common selfheal in almost every state in the US, in lawns, meadows, woodlands, and along trails.

How to find it

It's a low-growing plant, so look close to the ground. Its purple flowers are clustered together at the top of the stem.

Best time of day

Late spring through fall when its purple flowers are blooming.

How it lives

What it eats

Sunlight, water, and nutrients from soil

What eats it

Deer, rabbits, some insects (nectar)

Worth knowing

• Another common name for it is 'heal-all' because of its old uses as a medicine.
• It is a member of the mint family, though it doesn't always smell like mint.
• The flowers grow in a dense cylinder shape at the top of the stem.
• Bees absolutely love its nectar!
• Its leaves are sometimes eaten in salads or brewed as tea.
• It can grow in both sunny and shady spots.

Why it matters

Common selfheal provides nectar for many kinds of bees and butterflies. It helps cover the ground and can improve soil health.