Heal-all Prunella vulgaris
ABOUT
The plant known commonly as self-heal is a perennial herb that typically sports a sprawling or upright habit. Its leaves are oval to lance-shaped, boasting a lush green color, with edges that can be either smooth or slightly toothed. These foliage pieces are arranged oppositely on square stems, a characteristic common among members of its family. Self-heal comes alive with flowers during the blooming period, presenting dense spikes at the top of its stems. The individual flowers are small but quite striking, with a tubular structure that opens into two lips; the upper lip is hooded, while the lower one has three lobes. Usually, the flowers exhibit shades of violet or blue, sometimes with hints of pink or white. Adding to its quaint charm, the base of the plant is often adorned with leafy bracts, which can have a purple tint that complements the flowers. All these characteristics forge a plant that is not only appealing to the eye but also steeped in historical significance because of its variety of traditional uses.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae.
Synonyms
Common Self-Heal, Heal-All, Woundwort, Heart-Of-The-Earth, Carpenter's Herb, Brownwort, Blue Curls.
Common names
Brunella vulgaris, Prunella vulgaris var. lanceolata, Prunella vulgaris var. lilacina, Prunella vulgaris subsp. lanceolata, Prunella vulgaris subsp. vulgaris.
ToxicityTo humans
Self-heal, known scientifically as Prunella vulgaris, is not considered toxic to humans. It has a history of use in traditional herbal medicine for various ailments. However, consuming any plant in excessive amounts may cause digestive discomfort or allergic reactions in some individuals, so it should be consumed in moderation. There are no commonly reported symptoms of poisoning from self-heal, as it is not known to be a poisonous plant.
To pets
Self-heal, known scientifically as Prunella vulgaris, is not known to be toxic to pets. It is not listed as a poisonous plant for pets like dogs and cats. As with any non-toxic plants, ingestion in large amounts could potentially lead to gastrointestinal upset, but self-heal is not known to cause serious poisoning or life-threatening symptoms. Always monitor your pet's health and consult a veterinarian if you notice any unusual symptoms following ingestion of any plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Purple
Height
1 feet 6 inches (45.72 cm)
Spread
1 feet 8 inches (50.8 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-8
Native area
Europe, Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Edible parts - Prunella vulgaris, commonly known as Self-heal, has edible leaves and flowers that can be used in salads or as a garnish.
- Ground cover - Self-heal is a low-growing, spreading plant which makes it suitable for use as a ground cover in gardens.
- Attracts wildlife - It is known for attracting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, promoting biodiversity.
- Drought tolerance - Self-heal is drought-resistant, making it a good choice for xeriscaping or low-water gardens.
- Herbal tea ingredient - The leaves and flowers of Self-heal can be dried and used to make herbal teas.
- Culinary uses - Self-heal can be used in cooking, often as an herb to flavor dishes.
- Erosion control - Due to its spreading habit and robust root system, Self-heal can help prevent soil erosion.
- Lawn alternative - Self-heal can be used as a low-maintenance, eco-friendly lawn alternative.
- Traditional dye - Historically, Self-heal has been used as a source of natural dye for fabrics.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Prunella vulgaris is traditionally used for its potential to reduce inflammation.
- Antimicrobial: The plant has been used for its purported antimicrobial properties, potentially inhibiting the growth of bacteria and viruses.
- Antioxidant: Prunella vulgaris contains compounds that may act as antioxidants, helping to protect cells from damage.
- Antiviral: It has been used in traditional medicine as an antiviral agent, particularly in treating certain types of herpes.
- Wound healing: The plant may be used to promote healing of minor wounds and skin irritations.
- Immunomodulatory: Some suggest that Prunella vulgaris might modulate the immune system, although supporting evidence is limited.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Prunella vulgaris, commonly known as self-heal, can be used as a natural dye, providing shades of brown and green when used with different mordants on textile materials.
- In the kitchen, the fresh leaves can be added to salads, offering a mild and somewhat bitter flavor similar to other leafy greens.
- The plant can be included in the making of herbal vinegars, imparting its flavor and nutritive elements into the vinegar for culinary uses.
- Self-heal can be used as a component in companion planting, possibly helping to foster a healthier garden environment due to its reputed ability to ward off certain pests.
- The dried leaves and flowers can be crafted into potpourris, contributing an earthy scent to the mixture and adding a touch of color.
- Edible flowers from the self-heal plant can serve as garnishes for desserts or cocktails, providing an interesting visual appeal and mild flavor.
- It has been used in the past as a natural rinse for its potential to darken graying hair, although this is largely anecdotal.
- The flowering tops can be employed as decorative elements in crafts, such as wreath making or pressed flower art, due to their vibrant color and durability.
- It can be utilized in permaculture designs as ground cover due to its low-growing habit and the ability to attract beneficial insects.
- Self-heal is sometimes incorporated into floral arrangements as filler foliage, enhancing the bouquet with its lush green leaves and distinctive blossoms.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe common self-heal is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe common self-heal is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Healing - Prunella vulgaris, commonly known as self-heal, has a historical association with healing due to its medicinal uses. It was commonly believed to have the power to heal wounds and illnesses.
- Protection - As a plant believed to have healing properties, self-heal also symbolizes protection against harm and disease.
- Self-reliance - Its common name, self-heal, implies an ability to take care of oneself, symbolizing self-reliance and inner strength.
- Perseverance - Self-heal is a hardy plant that can thrive in various conditions, symbolizing the ability to overcome adversity and persevere.
- Harmony - The way self-heal contributes to the health of its environment makes it a symbol of ecological balance and harmony.
- Spiritual Healing - In some spiritual traditions, self-heal is used symbolically to promote emotional and spiritual healing.
- Magic & Witchcraft - In folklore, self-heal was often associated with magic and was used in various rituals and as a protective charm.
WaterSelf-heal, commonly known as Prunella vulgaris, prefers consistent moisture, especially when establishing roots or during particularly hot and dry periods. These plants should ideally be watered deeply about once a week, providing roughly 1 inch of water which is about 0.6 gallons per square yard of soil. To maintain even soil moisture, use a drip irrigation system or a soaker hose to deliver water directly to the base of the plant, avoiding overhead watering to prevent foliar diseases. During rainy seasons, natural precipitation may reduce the need to water. In well-drained soil and moderate climates, less frequent watering may be necessary, but always check the top inch of soil; if it feels dry to the touch, it’s time to water again.
LightFor optimal growth, self-heal or Prunella vulgaris thrives in full sun to partial shade. The best spot for the plant would be an area that receives at least 4 to 6 hours of sunlight daily. However, in hot climates, some afternoon shade is beneficial to prevent scorching of the leaves.
TemperatureSelf-heal, or Prunella vulgaris, is hardy and can survive a range of temperatures but thrives in conditions between 60°F and 80°F. The plant can withstand minimum temperatures down to about -30°F and maximum temperatures as high as around 90°F. However, for the best growth and flowering, maintaining the ideal temperature range is recommended.
PruningRegular pruning of self-heal or Prunella vulgaris encourages bushier growth and more flowering. Deadheading spent flowers can promote a second bloom. Prune lightly in the spring to remove any dead or damaged tissue and shape the plant. Major pruning should be done after flowering, typically in late summer or early fall, to prepare the plant for winter and to maintain its compact form.
CleaningAs needed
SoilSelfheal prefers a well-draining soil with moderate fertility and a slightly acidic to neutral pH of about 6.0-7.0. A good soil mix for Selfheal could consist of two parts loam, one part peat or compost, and one part sharp sand to ensure adequate drainage.
RepottingSelfheal (Prunella vulgaris) does not often require repotting as it is a hardy perennial that can thrive outdoors. However, if grown in containers, consider repotting every 2-3 years to replenish the soil and manage root growth.
Humidity & MistingSelfheal adapts to a wide range of humidity conditions but being a plant that thrives in temperate climates, it generally prefers a moderate level of humidity, neither too dry nor excessively humid.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place your Selfheal in bright, indirect sunlight and maintain moist soil.
Outdoor
Plant Selfheal in partial shade to sun, in moist, well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cyclePrunella vulgaris, commonly known as self-heal, begins its life cycle as a seed which germinates in early spring, often in cool, moist soil environments. Seedlings emerge with cotyledons followed by the true leaves as they enter the vegetative stage, forming a rosette at the base. As the plant matures, it produces square, upright stems with opposite leaves, and in the reproductive stage, typically in late spring to summer, it develops small, purplish flowers in dense spikes at the stem tips. These flowers are hermaphroditic, containing both male and female reproductive structures, and they are pollinated by insects, leading to the production of seeds. After pollination, the seeds ripen and are eventually dispersed, often close to the parent plant due to their limited dispersal mechanisms. As a perennial, self-heal can also spread vegetatively through its rhizomes, allowing it to form colonies and persist through winter before resuming growth in the spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The common self-heal, Prunella vulgaris, can be propagated through several methods, but the most popular method is by seed. Self-heal seeds are best sown in autumn or early spring directly into the ground where they are to grow. If starting them indoors for later transplanting, you can sow them in seed trays with well-draining soil, lightly pressing the seeds into the soil since they need light to germinate. It's important not to cover them with soil. The trays should be kept moist and placed in indirect light with a consistent temperature of around 70°F (21°C). Germination usually occurs within 2-6 weeks, after which the seedlings can be thinned out and eventually transplanted to their final growing location once the risk of frost has passed and they have developed a strong root system.
