Lamium amplexicaule (common henbit)

common henbit leaves

In common henbit or greater henbit the lower leaves are distinctly different from the upper leaves.

The upper leaves do not have a stalk, they sit directly on the stem.

Lamium amplexicaule
Lamium amplexicaule mid-March.

Habitus & biology

Lamium amplexicaule grows as an annual, but in mild climates there can be two generations per year, so the plant can be in flower as late as November.

common henbit in October
The common henbit after a frosty night in October.

The stems can reach lengths of up to 30 centimetres and can grow either lying down or upright.

The common henbit in a concrete planter
The common henbit in a concrete planter, together with chickweed and dandelion.

Origin & habitats

The original distribution area is in North Africa and Eurasia. As an introduced species, Lamium amplexicaule can also be found on the American continents (source).

Lamium amplexicaule on a wall
Lamium amplexicaule can also grow on or from walls.

The common henbit inhabits sunny to semi-shady locations and can be found in fields, parks, gardens, on embankments, hedges, bushes and roadsides.

Common henbit in a field
The common henbit together with shepherd’s purse (white flowers) and Persian speedwell (white-blue flowers) in a fallow field.