Henbit, scientifically known as Lamium amplexicaule, is a common and widespread plant often encountered across North America. This species belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae, but lacks the strong scent typically associated with its relatives. It is a cool-season annual that appears early in the year, sometimes even during mild winters. Henbit grows in many environments, frequently appearing in lawns, gardens, fields, and disturbed soil.
Identification and Classification
Henbit is a low-growing plant that typically reaches a height of 4 to 10 inches, although it can occasionally grow taller. Its most distinguishing physical characteristic is its square stem, which is a feature shared by many plants in the mint family. The stems are usually green but can take on a reddish-purple hue as they mature.
The leaves are opposite and have rounded, scalloped edges. A key identifier is the difference between the lower and upper leaves: the lower leaves have stalks (petioles), while the upper leaves are sessile. The upper leaves actually clasp or wrap around the stem, which is the meaning of the species name amplexicaule.
As a winter annual, seeds germinate in the cool, moist soil of the fall. The plant survives the winter and then rapidly grows, producing flowers and seeds in the early spring before dying off in the summer heat. The small, tube-shaped flowers are pink to purplish-red and form clusters, or whorls, in the axils of the upper, clasping leaves.
Edibility and Nutritional Value
Henbit is considered a wild edible, with all above-ground parts—the leaves, stems, and flowers—available for consumption. Despite being in the mint family, henbit does not have a minty taste. Instead, it is often described as having a mild, slightly peppery, or herbaceous flavor, sometimes compared to raw kale or spinach.
The plant offers nutritional benefits, containing various vitamins, minerals, and a good amount of iron. It is also noted for being rich in antioxidants and fiber. The young, tender leaves are best eaten raw in salads or blended into green smoothies. Older leaves and stems can be cooked like a potherb, similar to spinach, or added to soups and stir-fries.
Proper identification is necessary before consumption, as Henbit can be confused with similar-looking plants. If harvesting from a lawn or garden, ensure the plant has not been treated with chemical herbicides or pesticides. Only consume Henbit from areas known to be free of chemical applications.
Management and Removal
Henbit has a shallow, fibrous root system, making it relatively easy to remove by hand. Hand-pulling is most effective when the soil is moist and should be done before the plant produces seeds. A single plant can generate up to 2,000 seeds, emphasizing the need for timely removal.
Chemical control is often centered on pre-emergent herbicides, which are applied to the soil before the seeds germinate. The most effective time to apply pre-emergent products to manage this winter annual is in the early to mid-fall. This timing targets the plant’s germination period and prevents the seedlings from establishing themselves over the winter.
If Henbit is already actively growing, post-emergent broadleaf herbicides containing ingredients like 2,4-D or dicamba can be used. These treatments are most successful when applied in the fall or early spring while the plants are still young, but before they flower and set seed. Maintaining a dense, healthy lawn through proper mowing, watering, and fertilization is also an effective cultural practice, as a thick turf provides less open space for Henbit to establish.