Red Nancy Dead Nettle
Lamium maculatum 'Red Nancy'Red Nancy Dead Nettle is a fast-spreading perennial groundcover prized for its striking silver foliage, dark green leaf margins, and vibrant rosy-purple flowers. Blooming from mid-spring into early summer, with occasional reblooming through the season, it quickly forms a dense mat that brightens shaded gardens while helping to suppress weeds. The shimmering foliage provides season-long interest, even when the plant is not in bloom.
Its low-growing, trailing habit makes it an excellent choice for woodland gardens, beneath shrubs, along pathways, and spilling over retaining walls or container edges. The colorful flowers attract bees and other pollinators, while the attractive foliage creates contrast with hostas, ferns, and other shade-loving perennials.
Typically growing 6 to 8 inches tall and spreading 18 to 24 inches or more, Red Nancy is an excellent option for filling bare spaces in shaded landscapes. Its vigorous yet manageable growth makes it useful for mass plantings where long-lasting foliage interest is desired.
This perennial thrives in partial shade to shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Once established, it tolerates short periods of dry soil better than many other shade-loving groundcovers, although consistent moisture keeps the foliage looking its best.
Care Instructions:
Planting: Plant in partial shade to shade in moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter.
Soil: Prefers fertile, organically rich soil with good drainage.
Watering: Water regularly during establishment. Once established, water during prolonged dry periods.
Fertilizing: Apply compost or a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring if needed.
Pruning: Trim after flowering or shear lightly to encourage fresh foliage and maintain a tidy appearance.
Spacing: Space plants 18–24 inches apart for full coverage.
Maintenance: Divide every few years if needed to control spread and rejuvenate growth.
Its brilliant silver foliage, cheerful spring flowers, and dependable groundcover habit make Red Nancy Dead Nettle an outstanding choice for adding color and texture to shaded landscapes.
