Self-heal (also known as Heal-all, Heart of the Earth, and Carpenter's Herb)
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Tracheophyta, Class: Magnoliopsida, Order: Lamiales, Family: Lamiaceae, Genus: Prunella, Species: P. vulgaris · Lamiaceae (Mint family) · Simple, deciduous perennial herbaceous plant
Species
Prunella vulgaris
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous perennial herbaceous plant
Family
Lamiaceae (Mint family)
Shape
Lanceolate to ovate with an acute apex and rounded to cuneate base
Size
Approximately 1 to 2 inches long and 0.5 inches wide, which is typical for this herbaceous species
Margin
Serrate with shallow, rounded teeth or nearly entire
Arrangement
Opposite on square stems, typical of the mint family
Rarity
Very Common
Color & Pattern
Muted olive green due to pressing and drying, with hints of purple on the floral bracts and remnants of violet-purple tubular flowers
Venation Pattern
Pinnate with a prominent central midrib and branching lateral veins
Texture & Surface
Slightly rough and papery due to being pressed and dried, naturally slightly pubescent
Description
Prunella vulgaris is a low-growing, creeping perennial herb that produces square stems, opposite leaves, and dense terminal spikes of violet-blue, purple, or sometimes pinkish-white flowers clustered in the axils of kidney-shaped bracts. The plant spreads via stolons, forming low green mats.
Key Features
Square stems, opposite leaves, dense terminal flower spikes with purple-tinged bracts, and a creeping or ascending growth habit typical of the mint family without a strong minty scent
Habitat
Found in lawns, meadows, forest edges, disturbed ground, and waste places, preferring moist, well-draining soils in full sun to partial shade
Geographic Range
Widespread native distribution across temperate regions of Europe, Asia, and North America, and naturalized globally
Condition Notes
The specimen is a dried, pressed herbarium sample in fair to good condition, showing typical preservation of the floral spike, stem, and opposite lower leaves
Interesting Facts
The genus name Prunella is derived from the German word for quinsy, a throat disease it was historically used to treat. Its common name 'heal-all' reflects its extensive traditional use as a panacea for wounds and internal ailments
Medicinal & Uses
Used historically and in modern herbalism as a poultice for wounds, bruises, and sores, and brewed into teas for sore throats. The young leaves and stems are edible raw or cooked, often used in salads or soups
Ecological Role
Provides nectar for a wide variety of native bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, serving as an important forage plant in grassy ecosystems
Similar Species
Can be confused with other low-growing Lamiaceae members such as Ajuga reptans (bugleweed), which lacks the dense, terminal cylindrical flower spikes characteristic of Prunella
Foraging Tips
Look in lawns, damp meadows, and along woodland trails throughout spring and summer when the distinct purple flower heads and square stems are clearly visible
Toxicity Warning
Non-toxic and entirely safe for human consumption and wildlife