Common Self-heal (Heal-all)
Prunella vulgaris · Herbaceous Perennial Groundcover (Not a woody tree)
Plant Family
Lamiaceae (Mint Family)
Tree Category
Wildflower / Groundcover / Herbaceous Perennial
Variety / Cultivar
Prunella vulgaris subsp. vulgaris
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 3 through 9.
About This Tree
Although not a tree, this ground-hugging perennial features square stems, opposite paired leaves, and dense, cylindrical terminal flower spikes with whorls of purplish-pink or violet tubular flowers supported by overlapping green and reddish bracts.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, opposite, ovate to oblong-lanceolate leaves with smooth or lightly toothed margins, medium green, slightly hairy surface, up to 2 inches (5 cm) long.
Bark Characteristics
Not applicable (herbaceous plant with square, fine green to reddish-purple stems instead of woody bark).
Growing Information
Origin Region
Eurasia, North America, and North Africa; now globally naturalized across temperate regions.
Growing Season
Spring through autumn; blooms continuously from late spring to late summer, dying back in winter in cooler climates.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun to partial shade; medium moisture requirements, moderately drought-tolerant once established.
Mature Size
Height: 2 to 12 inches (5-30 cm); Spread: 10 to 20 inches (25-50 cm); Fast growth rate via rhizomes and seed.
Special Characteristics
Historically used as a medicinal herb; highly adaptable, lawn-tolerant, shade-tolerant, and resistant to deer and rabbits.
Wildlife & Ecology
Highly valuable forage plant for native bees, honeybees, bumblebees, and butterflies; provides nectar throughout summer.