Lamiastrum galeobdolon, commonly known as yellow archangel or golden dead-nettle, is a perennial groundcover that offers gardeners an attractive and low-maintenance option for shady areas. This member of the mint family (Lamiaceae) is native to shaded woodlands, copses, and thickets throughout much of Europe and western Asia. In New England, it can be found in the edges of forests and disturbed habitats. It was first described by Carl Linnaeus in 1753 and has undergone several name changes since then.

Description and Details Lamiastrum is recognized by its spreading habit and distinctive foliage. It grows up to 12–24 inches tall (30–60 cm) and will spread indefinitely. This plant trails along the ground by creeping runners (stolons) as a ground cover but will climb in an almost vine-like manner over low-growing vegetation and tree stumps, typically rooting in the ground at the nodes when they come in contact with the soil. The opposite leaves are ovate to rounded, with toothed edges and a pointed tip. They are typically medium to dark green, but many cultivated varieties have attractive silver markings. The leaves are aromatic when crushed. It is tolerant of a variety of urban conditions, including air pollution. The small, yellow flowers bloom for a few weeks in mid-spring, with a few flowers produced sporadically later in the year, adding a touch of brightness to shady gardens.

Unique Features Several features make lamiastrum stand out from other groundcovers:

• Shade tolerance: Contrary to common belief, lamiastrum prefers bright, dappled shade rather than deep shade. It can tolerate a wide range of light conditions, from dappled shade to deep shade.
• Attractive foliage: The plant's foliage is a key feature. It has ovate leaves with toothed edges, often adorned with silvery markings that add a touch of elegance.
• Flowers: In spring, Lamiastrum galeobdolon produces whorls of bright yellow, hooded flowers that resemble those of its relative, the deadnettle (Lamium). The flowers have a unique structure: a hooded upper lip and a three-lobed lower lip, often with orange-yellow streaks.
• Adaptability: It can grow in a wide range of habitats but seems to thrive in deeply shaded wet areas such as muddy streambanks and moist floodplains. It may also be seen in dry full sun conditions, growing slightly more erect.

Common Varieties There are several attractive cultivars of Lamiastrum galeobdolon available, each with unique attributes :

Native Habitat Lamiastrum galeobdolon is native to Europe and western Asia. It is typically found in shaded woodlands, copses, and thickets. It prefers moist soil but can grow well in a variety of soil types and sunlight.

Landscaping Design Tips Lamiastrum's versatility makes it a valuable asset in landscape design:

• Groundcover: Lamiastrum is an excellent choice for a groundcover in shade or partial shade. It will quickly fill in an area and suppress weeds.
• Erosion control: Its dense growth habit helps to stabilize slopes and prevent soil erosion, making it a valuable plant for landscaping on hillsides or along waterways.
• Border plant: Lamiastrum can also be used as a border plant. Its yellow flowers will add a pop of color to your garden.
• Container plant: Lamiastrum can also be grown in containers. It is a good choice for mixed container planting.
• Pollinator gardens: Lamiastrum attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, adding life and color to the garden.
• Urban gardens: Lamiastrum is particularly well-suited to urban environments due to its tolerance of various conditions, including air pollution.

Planting and Care Lamiastrum is a very easy plant to grow. It prefers moist, well-drained soil in part shade to full shade. Once established, it tolerates drought. It is also deer and rabbit resistant.

Planting

• Timing: Spring or fall is best for planting, allowing it to establish before the heat of summer or the cold of winter.
• Location: It thrives in partial to full shade. It can tolerate some sun, but in hot climates, it is best to provide shade during the hottest part of the day.
• Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soil. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay and sandy soils.

Care

• Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods.
• Fertilizing: Fertilize lightly in spring.
• Pruning: Cut back to check growth. Trim back to 6 to 8 inches after flowering to keep looking neat and promote healthy growth.
• Mulching: Apply a winter mulch during the first winter to prevent heaving of unestablished plants as a result of alternating freezes and thaws. Mulch also helps to suppress weeds and retain moisture in the soil during the growing season.

Other Insights for Gardeners

• Propagation: Lamiastrum is easily propagated by division or stem cuttings.
• Overwintering: In colder climates, it may die back to the ground in winter, but it will re-emerge in spring. Ensure good drainage during winter, especially for young plants, to prevent rotting.
• Invasive potential: Lamiastrum can be somewhat invasive in optimum growing conditions. It has been declared a non-regulated Class B noxious weed in parts of Washington and Oregon, where it cannot now be legally sold.
• Pest and diseases: No serious insect or disease problems. Slugs and snails are occasional visitors. Clear dead leaves in late winter to remove slug eggs and prevent fungal diseases.