Prunella vulgaris 'Magdalena', also known as Self Heal, is a low growing mat forming perennial with dense spikes of violet purple flowers that bloom throughout summer. Prized for its ability to naturalize in both gardens and informal areas.
Height & Spread: 6 - 8 in x 12 - 18 in
Bloom Time: Early summer to early fall
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Adaptable to a range of soils; prefers moist, well drained conditions
Watering Needs: Low to moderate; tolerates short dry periods once established
Deer Resistance: High
Native Status
Native to North America, Europe, and Asia. The cultivar 'Magdalena' is derived from North American native stock and selected for compactness and prolific flowering.
Wildlife & Insects
Butterflies
- Attracts smaller butterflies like Pearl Crescents and Common Blues which visit frequently for nectar.
Bees
- Highly attractive to native bumblebees and sweat bees which forage enthusiastically on its dense flower spikes.
Beneficial Insects
- Supports hoverflies and predatory wasps contributing to a balanced garden ecosystem.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 12 - 18 in apart to encourage dense ground coverage without overcrowding.
Landscape Placement
- Best used in pollinator gardens, meadow plantings, rock gardens, or as a flowering ground cover in sunny to lightly shaded sites.
Companion Plants
- Achillea millefolium (Yarrow) - Complements Prunella with similar cultural needs and flat flower heads that draw pollinators.
- Coreopsis verticillata (Threadleaf Coreopsis) - Offers bright, airy foliage and daisy like blooms for contrast and texture.
- Salvia nemorosa (Woodland Sage) - Enhances purple and blue tones in the landscape while extending seasonal interest.
- Nepeta 'Walker's Low' (Catmint) - Adds a soft, aromatic border with spikes of lavender flowers that mirror Prunella’s hues.
- Erigeron pulchellus (Robin's Plantain) - Provides early spring bloom and naturalized form in similar habitats.