Lanceleaf Self-Heal (Prunella vulgaris ssp. lanceolata) can be found in a wide range of damp or seasonally damp habitats throughout North America, including meadows, wetlands, prairies, open woodlands, and disturbed areas. It features lance-shaped leaves and produces dense heads of small, tubular flowers that come in various shades of purple. A fast, dense-growing perennial groundcover, Lanceleaf Self-Heal is an ideal plant for suppressing weeds and protecting soils early in restoration projects or difficult sites.
 
Plants typically bloom from late spring to early fall, with its peak bloom occurring from June to August. During this period, the plant produces numerous flower spikes that attract all sorts of bees, especially bumblebees, and butterflies. Lanceleaf Self-Heal is an important host plant for the Clouded Sulphur butterfly (Colias philodice) and provides nectar for many other small butterflies, such as Skippers (Hesperiidae spp.) and Gossamer-Winged butterflies (Lycaenidae spp.). Self-Heal has long historical use as a medicinal herb in many cultures wherever it occurs in the world. Traditionally, various Native peoples and early settlers utilized the plant to treat minor wounds, soothe sore throats, or alleviate digestive issues. A common trailside groundcover and often abundant in other damp disturbed areas popular with mosquitos and no-see-ums, Self-Heals make for a readily available bug-bite treatment on-the-go. 
 
Lanceleaf Self-Heal is adaptable to a wide range of soil types, including loamy, sandy, or clay soils. It prefers damp, well-drained soils in partially shaded conditions, but can tolerate full sun if moisture is consistently available. Plants tend to remain more cespitose and short-lived in drier environments. The seeds of Lanceleaf Self-Heal can be surface sown from spring through fall in prepared soil and lightly covered with sand or fine soil. Maintain adequate moisture until seedlings mature for successful establishment.
 
Due to its dense, spreading habitat and high seedling establishment, Self-Heal can become aggressive in garden settings and damp environments, and should be seeded in moderation unless a full groundcover is desired.