General Culture:

Easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soils in part shade to full shade. Prefers evenly moist, acidic loams with good drainage. Dislikes wet soils, particularly in winter. Dislikes high heat and humidity and does best when soils are cool. Unsightly bare patches (often called melting out) may appear in the heat of the summer in hot and humid climates. If such mid-summer foliage decline occurs, plants may be cut back or sheared to stimulate new foliage growth. Leaf scorch may also occur, particularly if soils are allowed to dry out or if plants are grown in too much sun. When grown as a ground cover, starter plants may be spaced 6-10" apart for quick coverage. Evergreen in mild winter climates, but not in the St. Louis area.

Noteworthy Characteristics:

'Elisabeth de Haas' is a spotted deadnettle cultivar which is noted for its variegated foliage. It is a mat-forming perennial ground cover which typically grows 4-8" high and spreads to 12-18" wide or more by sprawling stems which root in the ground as they go. Grows vigorously in optimum conditions but is easy to control and is not considered to be too aggressive. Features toothed, oval, silvery-green leaves (to 1" long) which are splashed with rich gold variegation. Clusters of small, two-lipped, hooded rose-pink flowers (typical mint family) appear at the stem ends in late spring to early summer.

Problems:

No serious insect or disease problems. Aphids and slugs are occasional visitors. Crown rot may occur in poorly drained, wet soils. Foliage may decline (melt out) in hot and humid summer climates.

Uses:

Small scale ground cover for shady areas. Intolerant of foot traffic, however. Also effective as an edger, but spread must be controlled. Hanging baskets.

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