Contents
Description
Lamium Maculatum Beacon Silver, also known as spotted deadnettle, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the mint family. This plant is native to Europe and Asia, but it is widely grown in gardens across the world due to its attractive foliage and easy-to-grow nature. The plant can grow up to a height of 6-10 inches and is known for its silver-green leaves, which are marked with white edges. The leaves have a soft texture and are hairy, giving them a velvety appearance. The plant produces small, pink-purple flowers in late spring to early summer, which are loved by pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The plant is a great addition to any garden, providing year-round interest and beauty.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Lamium |
Appearance
Lamium Maculatum Beacon Silver is a low-growing, spreading plant that forms a dense mat of foliage. The plant has heart-shaped leaves that are silver-green in color and have white edges. The leaves are 1-2 inches long and have a soft, velvety texture. The plant produces small, tubular flowers that are pink-purple in color and are arranged in whorls around the stem. The flowers bloom from late spring to early summer and are loved by pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The plant is a great choice for ground cover or border planting and adds year-round interest to any garden.
Care Guide
Lamium Maculatum Beacon Silver is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The plant prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer in spring and mid-summer to promote healthy growth.
- Soil: The plant prefers a rich, loamy soil that is well-drained. Amend the soil with compost or organic matter before planting.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full shade. Too much sun can scorch the leaves and cause the plant to wilt.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lamium Maculatum Beacon Silver is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, the plant may be affected by powdery mildew, especially in humid conditions. To prevent powdery mildew, ensure good air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead watering. The plant may also be affected by slugs and snails, which can be controlled using organic slug baits or by handpicking.
Habitat
Lamium Maculatum Beacon Silver is native to Europe and Asia and is commonly found in woodland habitats, meadows, and along roadsides. The plant prefers moist, shady areas and can tolerate a wide range of soil types. The plant has been widely cultivated and is a popular garden plant across the world, providing year-round interest and beauty.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lamium Maculatum Beacon Silver a good ground cover plant?
A: Yes, Lamium Maculatum Beacon Silver is an excellent ground cover plant, forming a dense mat of foliage that suppresses weeds and adds year-round interest to any garden.
Q: How often should I water Lamium Maculatum Beacon Silver?
A: Water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. Ensure the soil is moist but well-drained.
Q: Does Lamium Maculatum Beacon Silver attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant produces small, pink-purple flowers that are loved by pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Lamium Maculatum Beacon Silver be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough and has good drainage.
Related Plants
- Lamium Maculatum White Nancy
- Lamium Maculatum Pink Chablis
- Lamium Maculatum Purple Dragon
- Lamium Maculatum Orchid Frost
References
- “Spotted Deadnettle (Lamium Maculatum).” Garden Design. Accessed August 30, 2021. https://www.gardendesign.com/plants/spotted-deadnettle.html.
- “Lamium Maculatum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 30, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=k470.
- “Lamium Maculatum Beacon Silver.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 30, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/8665/Lamium-maculatum-Beacon-Silver/Details.
