Large Flowered Hemp Nettle, Edmonton hempnettle
Galeopsis speciosa
Family: Lamiaceae or Labiatae
What it is like
Galeopsis speciosa is a ANNUAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). It is in flower from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 1
Where it is found
Arable land, often on black peaty soils.
Europe, including Britain, from Norway south and east to France, Bulgaria and Siberia.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Oil: Oil
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating: 2
A drying oil is obtained from the seed. It is used as a polish for leather.
Oil: Vegetable oils have many uses, as lubricants, lighting, soap and paint making, waterproofing etc. This does not include the edible oils unless they are also mentioned as having other uses.
How it is grown
Grows in most soils, disliking heavy shade. This plant is sometimes grown in the wild garden.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in situ. Germination usually takes place within a month.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Annual
Hardiness: 0-0
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist
Things to keep in mind
The plant is poisonous, causing paralysis.