Red Dead Nettle (Lamium purpureum) is a common plant appearing across lawns, gardens, and fields in early spring. Often dismissed as a weed, its rapid growth and distinctive appearance frequently lead people to question its safety. This analysis addresses the safety status of this prevalent wildflower.
The Definitive Answer on Toxicity
Red Dead Nettle is generally not toxic to humans or common household pets, such as dogs and cats. It is not a poisonous plant and does not contain harmful compounds that cause severe reactions. As a member of the mint family (Lamiaceae), it lacks the stinging hairs found on the unrelated stinging nettle.
If ingested in unusually large quantities, the plant may cause mild, temporary digestive upset. This reaction is likely due to the plant’s high fiber content, not poisoning. Symptoms such as a slight stomach ache or mild diarrhea are possible, which is common when consuming excessive amounts of any wild green.
Key Characteristics for Identification
Accurate identification of Lamium purpureum relies on distinct physical characteristics. Like all members of the mint family, the plant possesses a four-sided, square stem, which is a reliable identifying feature. The plant typically maintains a low-growing, sprawling habit, reaching heights of about four to ten inches.
The leaves are heart-shaped or triangular with scalloped margins and grow in opposite pairs along the stem. A telling trait is the vibrant, purplish-red coloration that often appears on the leaves near the apex of the plant. Small, hooded flowers, ranging from pink to purplish-pink, cluster in whorls where the upper leaves meet the stem.
Misidentification Risks and Dangerous Look-Alikes
The primary safety concern with Red Dead Nettle is the risk of confusing it with other species. Its common name references Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica), which causes temporary skin irritation from its tiny hairs. Red Dead Nettle is easily differentiated because its leaves and stems are softly hairy but do not sting.
Another frequent mix-up is with Henbit (Lamium amplexicaule), a close, non-toxic relative. Red Dead Nettle’s upper leaves have short stalks, while Henbit’s upper leaves are sessile, meaning they directly clasp the stem without a stalk. Before it flowers, the young plant can also be mistaken for the highly poisonous Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea).
It is important to confirm the square stem and unique purple top before consuming any part of the plant. Other toxic weeds with purple flowers exist, such as Horse Nettle (Solanum carolinense), which is highly poisonous due to the presence of solanine. Waiting until the plant has fully developed its characteristic features helps prevent accidental ingestion of a harmful species.
Edibility and Traditional Applications
Since Red Dead Nettle is non-toxic, many people are interested in its practical uses. The leaves and flowers are edible and can be consumed raw or cooked. Young, tender leaves are often added to spring salads, while older leaves can be sautéed or incorporated into soups and stews, much like spinach.
Traditionally, the plant has been valued for its mild medicinal properties. It is a source of nutrients, including Vitamin C and iron, and contains beneficial compounds like flavonoids. Herbalists have employed it for its mild astringent, diuretic, and anti-inflammatory qualities. It has also been used externally, applied as a poultice, to care for minor cuts and scrapes.