How to Grow Prunella (Self-Heal)

How to Grow Prunella (Self-Heal)

Perennial, Prunella grandiflora

Looking for a pretty, easy-to-grow flowering ground cover? Prunella is your answer! Native to Europe, prunella flowers come in lavender, pink, purple, and white. They're prolific re-seeders.

Prunella is actually classified as an herb—a medicinal one. Every part of the plant is edible!

Plant Height: 8″ – 12″
Other Names: Commonly known as "Self Heal" for its many medicinal uses.

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Plant Propagation

Prunella grows from seeds that require cold stratification. Chill seeds in the refrigerator for 4–6 weeks before planting. Do not cover seeds—they need light to germinate. Ideal soil temperature is 70–75°F. For best results, use a heated germination mat.

Days to Germination: 15–20

Prunella also propagates from creeping stems that root at each node where they touch moist ground. Divide and replant clumps in spring or early fall.

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How to Grow Prunella

Prunella is easy to grow in almost any well-drained soil. It prefers full to partial sunlight.

Plants don't need much fertilizer. Mix in compost at planting. Apply a general-purpose fertilizer in early spring and again in mid-summer.

Pinch back growing tips when young to promote bushier growth. Deadhead spent blooms to prolong flowering.

Plant Spacing: 12″
Flowers Bloom: Summer to early Fall

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Insects and Disease

Prunella is seldom bothered by insects or disease and generally doesn't need insecticides or fungicides. On rare occasions, treat with insecticidal soap and/or fungicide at the first sign of trouble.

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Edible Prunella

All parts are edible; leaves are used most often. Use raw, cooked, or dried. Older leaves can become bitter, especially in hot, dry weather. Try leaves in soups, stews, salads, or cold beverages.

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Medicinal Uses

Prunella has been used for a seemingly endless list of ailments, both external and internal.

External: wounds, cold sores, mouth ulcers, toe fungus.
Internal: diarrhea, bloating, internal bleeding.

Note: This is only a partial list.

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