Splitlip hempnettle
Galeopsis bifida

Family: Lamiaceae or Labiatae

What it is like

Galeopsis bifida 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). 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, occasionally in woods, fens and wet heaths.

Northern and central Europe, including Britain, to N. Asia.

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. Very closely allied to G. tetrahit and considered to be no more than a sub-species of it by some botanists. It is probably of the same hybrid origin as G. tetrahit.

Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in situ. Germination usually takes place within a month.

Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; 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.

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

G. tetrahit bifida.