Self Heal

Self Heal (Prunella vulgaris)

Self Heal is a low-growing perennial herb known for its small purple flowers and long history in traditional medicine. Found in meadows and woodland edges, it plays an important role in supporting pollinators like bees and butterflies with its nectar-rich blooms. Medicinally, the leaves and flowers have been used for centuries to treat wounds, inflammation, and sore throats. Self Heal thrives in various garden settings, including wildflower meadows, borders, and herb gardens, where it enhances biodiversity and offers both ecological and medicinal benefits.

Key Characteristics:

• Pollinator Support with Nectar-Rich Flowers
  Self Heal produces clusters of small purple flowers that bloom from late spring through summer, providing an important nectar source for bees, butterflies, and hoverflies. Species like bumblebees (Bombus spp.) and the Painted Lady butterfly (Vanessa cardui) frequent these blooms, making Self Heal valuable for pollinator gardens.
• Traditional Medicinal Uses
  Known for its healing properties, Self Heal has been used in herbal medicine to treat cuts, bruises, and inflammation. Both the leaves and flowers can be made into teas, poultices, or salves to soothe sore throats, reduce swelling, and promote wound healing. Its name reflects its historical use as a remedy for a variety of ailments.
• Ground Cover and Erosion Control
  Self Heal’s spreading growth habit makes it an excellent ground cover, particularly in moist or shaded areas. Its dense foliage helps stabilize soil, making it ideal for preventing erosion along slopes or in woodland gardens.
• Enhances Biodiversity in Meadows and Gardens
  Thriving in naturalized settings, Self Heal is an excellent addition to wildflower meadows, woodland edges, and cottage gardens. It attracts pollinators while providing a lush, green carpet of foliage, contributing to a healthy and biodiverse ecosystem.
• Low Maintenance and Versatile
  Self Heal is drought-tolerant once established and adapts to a variety of soils, including sandy or clay soils. It’s a great choice for low-maintenance gardens, providing both ecological benefits and beauty with minimal care.

Product Details:

• Native Range: Northern Hemisphere (North America, Europe, Asia)
• Plant Life Cycle: Perennial
• Sun Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Requirements: Medium to moist, well-drained
• Mature Height: 6-12 inches
• Bloom Time: May to September
• Bloom Color: Purple
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-9

Self Heal offers both ecological and medicinal benefits, making it a versatile addition to any garden. With its pollinator-friendly blooms and historical healing uses, it’s perfect for wildflower meadows, herb gardens, and borders.