Common Self-heal (also known as Heal-all, Heart-of-the-earth, All-heal)
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Tracheophyta, Class: Magnoliopsida, Order: Lamiales, Family: Lamiaceae, Genus: Prunella, Species: P. vulgaris · Lamiaceae (Mint family) · Simple, deciduous
Species
Prunella vulgaris
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Family
Lamiaceae (Mint family)
Shape
Lanceolate to ovate with a tapered tip
Size
Approximately 1 to 2 inches long and 0.5 inches wide, typical for the species
Margin
Entire to slightly crenate or toothed
Arrangement
Opposite on square stems
Rarity
Very Common
Color & Pattern
Muted dark green from pressing and drying, with purplish-blue to violet flowers clustered at the top in a dense, whorled spike
Venation Pattern
Pinnate with a prominent midrib and branching secondary veins
Texture & Surface
Papery and flattened due to being pressed and dried, originally slightly pubescent
Description
Prunella vulgaris is a low-growing, perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the mint family. It features square stems, opposite leaves, and compact spikes of tubular, two-lipped purple-blue flowers that bloom from late spring through autumn. The pressed specimen clearly shows the square stem, opposite leaf pairs, and the characteristic dense terminal flower cluster.
Key Features
Square stems characteristic of the mint family, opposite leaves, dense whorled spikes of purple-blue bilabiate flowers, and a creeping or ascending growth habit
Habitat
Fields, lawns, open woods, roadsides, waste places, and disturbed soils; prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial to full sun
Geographic Range
Native to temperate regions of Europe, Asia, and North America, and widely naturalized globally
Condition Notes
Fair to Good for a dried and pressed botanical specimen; intact structure showing leaves, stem, and flower spike securely taped into a herbarium or journal
Interesting Facts
The genus name Prunella comes from the German word 'Braune', referring to a throat disease (quinsy) that the plant was historically used to treat. Its common name 'heal-all' reflects its long history as a remedy for wounds and bleeding in traditional herbalism.
Medicinal & Uses
Historically used in traditional European and Chinese medicine to treat sore throats, wounds, minor cuts, and fevers. Young leaves and stems are edible and can be eaten raw in salads or boiled as a pot herb.
Ecological Role
Serves as an important nectar source for native bees, bumblebees, butterflies, and other pollinators. It acts as a resilient ground cover in disturbed ecosystems and helps stabilize soils.
Similar Species
Other members of the Lamiaceae family, such as Bugleweed (Ajuga reptans) which has wider basal rosettes and stolons, and various dead-nettles (Lamium), but distinguished by Prunella's specific dense, bract-supported flower heads.
Foraging Tips
Look in lawns, damp meadows, and forest edges during spring and summer when the purple flower spikes are visible. Remember that mint family members always feature square stems and opposite leaves.
Toxicity Warning
Non-toxic. Safe for human consumption and generally safe for pets in moderation.