Family:  Mint (Lamiaceae)

Self seeding annual, harvest in 60 days.

(Archangel, Red Dead Nettle, Purple Dead Nettle)  The plant does well in borders as a low-lying bedding plant; blooms handsomely early in the spring. Edible, best when cooked, especially nice in casserole, as the plant takes on flavors in cooking and cooking makes the plant more texturally palatable.  Traditional usage (TWM): astringent, vaginal infections (dysmenorrhea and white discharge).  The flowers are short-lived, an early spring occurrence, and once they look big and healthy, it is best to pick them at that time, because they will soon return to the earth from whence they came.   Some people wonder if by “flowers” we mean just the tiny inflorescence, but no, it is the whole thing that is used–just sever from the stalk at the base–easy.   Sow outdoors in very early spring by casting the seed on disturbed soil or seed bed and press in well, keeping evenly moist until germination.  These plants require no thinning and little care beyond an appreciation for their bravely florific display.

100 seeds/pkt., Certified Organically Grown