Natural History Story

One of my research-quality observations has been identified by the community as Lamium amplexicaule, or Henbit Deadnettle. It is a dicot in the Laminiaceae family. Its scientific name is based on its leaf formation - it has amplexicaul leaves, which grasp their stem. The leaves are also rounded and opposite. The common name for the plant, Henbit, refers to the tendency of chickens to eat it. which The flowers are generally insect-pollinated, but they are able to self-pollinate and do so if insect pollinators are not acting sufficiently. They propagate by seed and are frequented by bees. Honeybees and hummingbirds in particular use the nectar and pollen of the plant. Henbit Deadneetle can grow in a range of soils and climate conditions, and is found in a variety of environments, including waste areas, cultivated fields, railroads and pastures. It can grow in shade and under shrubs. The Henbit Deadnettle is not an endangered species; it has spread from its native Mediterranean region to a variety of environments throughout the world. In many areas, it is regarded as an invasive species. It is edible and nutritious for humans and helps flush toxins out through the skin and the digestive system. It is also sometimes used in erosion control.

Posted on April 22, 2014 06:21 AM by nataliemarisa nataliemarisa

Observations

Photos / Sounds

What

Henbit Deadnettle (Lamium amplexicaule)

Observer

nataliemarisa

Date

April 20, 2014 07:43 PM PDT

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