Species motherwort
small, feathery, white-violet flowers arranged in dense clusters along green stems and hand-shaped, small, green, shiny leaves

motherwort

Leonurus cardiaca

Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca) is a flowering herb in the mint family. Growing up to two feet tall, it sports lacy leaves and small pinkish-purple blooms during the summer months. The plant has an unpleasant smell and bitter taste, leading to its name, as the sharp flavor was thought to be like a mother's scolding. Traditional herbalists used it for its calming and heart-supporting properties, as well as to support the female reproductive system. Today, its leaves are often added to tea blends to help promote relaxation.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Layering Propagation,Seed Propagation,Root Cutting

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 8

Flowers:

Lilac-pink Flowers

Sun:

Part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,yellow,gray,gray

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

watering

Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca) should be watered deeply and thoroughly, about once a week. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering;too much water can cause root rot. Applying mulch around the base of the plant can help the soil retain moisture. In the hot summer months, however, this plant may require additional watering. To ensure that motherwort does not become too dried out, it is best to check the soil every few days and add additional water as needed.

sunlight

Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca) prefers to grow in areas that receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day. This amount of sunlight is necessary for it to fully thrive, but too much sunlight may cause it to become scorched. The best time for Motherwort to receive sunlight is in the morning, as this helps to wake it up and get it growing. In addition, Motherwort also prefers not to be in direct sunlight during the middle of the day, as this could cause it to become dehydrated and stressed out.

pruning

Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca) should be pruned in late winter or early spring before it starts to bud. Prune the plant back to 2 to 3 feet for smaller varieties and 4 to 5 feet for larger varieties. Pruning can also be carried out after flowering if needed. Always prune dead or weak growth as well as any straggly stems, removing them right to the base of the plant. When pruning for shape, take off 1-third to 1-half of the overall height. Finally, remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms and help promote better health.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Motherwort typically starts flowering in June.

Hardiness Map