Red Dead Nettle Herb | Purple Dead Nettle, Lamium purpureum

What Is Red Dead Nettle?

Red dead nettle (Lamium purpureum), also called purple dead nettle or red archangel, is a small annual herb of the mint family native to Europe and western Asia and now common across North America. It is one of the first wild plants to flower in spring, covering gardens, fields and roadsides with soft, purple-tinged leaves and small pink-purple flowers.

Despite its name, red dead nettle is not a true nettle and does not sting. It is called dead nettle because its heart-shaped, toothed leaves look like stinging nettle leaves, but without the sting. Its square stems and hooded flowers show its place in the mint family.

Red dead nettle is a favorite of foragers. The young leaves and flowering tops are eaten fresh in salads, smoothies and pesto, and the dried herb is brewed into a mild, green and slightly earthy tea. Its early flowers are also an important source of nectar for bees in spring.

Dried red dead nettle can be enjoyed on its own or blended with other spring herbs such as nettle, cleavers, violet or mint.

Our red dead nettle contains only the dried herb with nothing added. It is sold by weight, from small packs to bulk.