Motherwort (also known as Lion's Tail or Throw-wort)
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Angiosperms, Class: Eudicots, Order: Lamiales, Family: Lamiaceae, Genus: Leonurus, Species: Leonurus cardiaca · Lamiaceae (Mint family) · Simple; Deciduous perennial
Species
Leonurus cardiaca (Confidence level: 98%)
Leaf Type
Simple; Deciduous perennial
Family
Lamiaceae (Mint family)
Shape
Palmately lobed with 3-7 distinct, pointed segments; lower leaves are more rounded/cordate while upper leaves near flowers are more lanceolate and narrow.
Size
Typically 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) in length. Lower leaves can be larger, up to 5 inches wide, whereas the upper leaves shown here are smaller and more streamlined.
Margin
Deeply lobed and coarsely serrated (toothed) with sharp tips.
Arrangement
Opposite (pairs emerging from a square stem).
Rarity
Very Common; often considered a weed or an escapee from herb gardens.
Color & Pattern
Dull dark green on the upper surface, paler grayish-green underneath. No variegation; veins are slightly lighter green than the blade.
Venation Pattern
Palmate-pinnate; primary veins radiate from the base into the lobes, then branch into a reticulate network.
Texture & Surface
Pubescent (fine, downy hairs) especially on the undersides and along the veins; the feel is soft but matte. Stems are distinctly four-angled and hairy.
Description
Motherwort is an upright, clump-forming perennial herb that can reach 3-5 feet in height. It features a square, hollow stem characteristic of the mint family. Small, fuzzy, pink-to-lilac flowers grow in prickly whorls (verticillasters) in the leaf axils along the upper half of the stem. It has a rugged, slightly wild appearance that stands out in cottage gardens.
Key Features
Distinctive square stem; palmately lobed leaves resembling a maple leaf but thinner; fuzzy flowers encircle the stem in the axils; prickly seed heads that remain into winter.
Habitat
Disturbed soils, roadsides, fields, and edges of woods. Prefers well-drained soil and partial to full sun.
Geographic Range
Native to Central Europe and Asia; widely naturalized across North America where it was introduced by early settlers.
Condition Notes
The specimen looks healthy and is in its reproductive phase. Some minor browning on leaf tips (likely age-related or slight water stress) but overall health is Good.
Interesting Facts
The genus name 'Leonurus' means 'Lion's Tail,' referring to the shape of the plant. It has a long history of use in folk medicine for heart palpitations and anxiety, hence the species name 'cardiaca.'
Medicinal & Uses
Traditionally used to treat 'female' ailments, heart tension, and anxiety. It contains leonurine, a mild vasodilator. It is also a valuable honey plant for bees. WARNING: Should be avoided during pregnancy as it may stimulate uterine contractions.
Ecological Role
Highly attractive to pollinators, especially bumblebees and honeybees. It provides nectar when many other spring flowers have faded.
Similar Species
Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) lacks the square stem and whorled flowers; Various Maples (Acer) are woody trees, unlike this herbaceous plant.
Foraging Tips
Look for the square stem and opposite, deeply lobed leaves. Best harvested just as it begins to flower for medicinal use. Wear gloves, as the dried flower calyxes become quite sharp and prickly.
Toxicity Warning
Not generally considered toxic to humans in small herbal doses, but can cause photosensitivity or dermatitis in some individuals. Moderately Toxic if consumed in large quantities; high doses can affect heart rate. Rated Mildly Toxic for safety as a general precaution.