Lamium maculatum 'Purple Dragon' (Spotted Dead Nettle)

Plant Profile

Lamium maculatum 'Purple Dragon' (PP15890) is a superior spotted dead nettle cultivar. It forms a dense, spreading mat of heart-shaped leaves with a wide, silvery-white central stripe and green margins. In late spring to summer, it produces clusters of large, deep purple, hooded flowers. Does not revert to solid green. Hybridized by Vansanden, introduced 2002.

Key Characteristics

• Family: Lamiaceae (lay-mee-AY-see-ee)
• Genus: Lamium (LAY-mee-um)
• Species: maculatum (mak-yuh-LAH-tum)
• Cultivar: 'Purple Dragon' (PP15890)
• Hybridizer: Vansanden
• Introduction: 2002

Growing Conditions

Partial to full shade, moist, well-drained soil. Hardy in USDA zones 4–8. Tolerates dry shade once established.

Landscape Uses

Groundcover for shade, containers, hanging baskets. Brightens dark areas.

Maintenance

Shear after flowering. Divide in spring or fall. Remove any reversions (rare).