Self-Heal

Self-heal (Prunella vulgaris) is a low, mat-forming perennial with creeping stems that root at their nodes. Its short upright flower spikes carry deep-violet flowers, occasionally pink or white, from summer into early autumn. The Royal Horticultural Society lists it for full sun or partial shade and notes its usefulness as ground cover in wildlife gardens. [RHS plant profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/13944/prunella-vulgaris/details). ## Garden Use Use self-heal to soften the edge of a path, fill a small bank or weave through a wildlife planting. It can spread through rooting stems, so choose a place where its low ground-covering habit fits. ## Growing Conditions It grows in chalk, clay, loam or sandy soils and tolerates both well-drained and some poorly drained conditions. Sun or partial shade suits this adaptable perennial. ## Maintenance Deadhead after flowering if you want to limit self-seeding. Divide or lift rooted sections when needed to keep the patch within its space.