Lamium maculatum 'White Nancy' is a compact low growing groundcover prized for its shimmering silver foliage edged in green and bright white spring blooms. It spreads quickly but non aggressively in shade gardens, filling gaps beneath shrubs and perennials while suppressing weeds. Evergreen in milder climates and semi evergreen elsewhere, this cultivar brightens dark spaces and pairs well with woodland and early spring plants.
Height & Spread: 6 - 8 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Mid spring to early summer
Light Requirements: Part shade to full shade
Soil Preference: Moist, well drained soils rich in humus
Watering Needs: Moderate, consistent moisture in summer heat
Deer Resistance: Unpalatable to deer due to aromatic foliage
Native Status
'White Nancy' is a cultivar of Lamium maculatum, a species native to Europe and Western Asia. It is not native to North America but is widely cultivated as an ornamental groundcover.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Visited by small native bees particularly sweat bees and mason bees which access the tubular flowers for nectar.
Beneficial Insects
- Provides habitat and ground cover for predatory beetles and parasitic wasps that help manage garden pests.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 12 - 18 in apart for even coverage in shady beds or between stepping stones.
Landscape Placement:
- Effective under shrubs, along paths, or at the front of woodland borders. Excellent for edging or container spillover.
Companion Plants
- Asarum europaeum (European Wild Ginger) - Lustrous foliage and shade loving habit complement the silver leaf tones of Lamium.
- Polygonatum odoratum 'Variegatum' - Arching stems with striped foliage offer vertical contrast and thrive in similar conditions.
- Brunnera macrophylla 'Jack Frost' - Bold silvery leaves and forget me not like blooms pair well with the compact silvery Lamium.
- Primula vulgaris (Primrose) - Early colorful blooms add seasonal interest before Lamium reaches full flower.
- Epimedium x rubrum - Delicate spring blooms and attractive foliage add variety and thrive in shaded woodland areas.