Lamium amplexicaule, commonly known as common henbit, or greater henbit, is a species of Lamium native to Europe, Asia and northern Africa. The specific name refers to the amplexicaul leaves (leaves grasping the stem). It is widely naturalized in North America and elsewhere. It is a low-growing annual plant growing to 4–9 in tall, with soft, finely hairy stems. The leaves are opposite, rounded, 3/4 in diameter, with a lobed margin. The very small flowers are pink to purple and are just 1/3 inch long.

Lamium amplexicaule is a common annual wildflower (weed) found throughout most of the U.S. Henbit got its name because chickens like to eat it. Henbit’s distinctive flowers are reddish-purple with darker coloring in spots on lower petals. It blooms in the spring with the flowers arranged in whorls in the upper leaves. It is a winter annual, broadleaf weed that reproduces by seed that germinate in the fall or winter. It remains somewhat dormant during the winter. Henbit resumes growth and produces seed in the spring and dies as temperatures increase in late spring and early summer.

A member of the mint family, henbit (Lamium amplexicaule) is a commonly overlooked plant that’s often labeled simply as a weed. Known also as henbit deadnettle, this springtime plant is often considered a very nutritious and abundant wild edible. Low in calories and rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, henbit is a great ingredient to add to your diet. It supposedly has some amazing natural medicinal qualities too. Henbit has been used in herbal remedies to reduce fever, induce sweating, and treat joint aches. Historically used as chicken fodder, today, many people are adding this underrated wild edible into their own diet. This is one of the first wild edibles to make an appearance each spring.

Because it’s one of the first plants on the scene, this is an important food for wild pollinators. You’ll often see it buzzing with bees. The bright pink/purple flowers that bloom in late winter are a telltale sign that spring is approaching. And you’ll often see lots of honeybees and insect pollinators visiting the flowers. Even though it’s often considered a weed, henbit can actually be a very valuable plant. Their flowers can add a beautiful splash of color to your garden in early spring. Plus, local wildlife like birds, pollinators, and small mammals will benefit from the seeds, flowers, and ground cover. Its attractive appearance, edibility, and readiness to grow in many climates often mean it is permitted to grow when other weeds are not. This plant, though common, is not regarded as a threat to local ecosystems. It plays an arguably beneficial role in its environment by providing nectar to pollinators and providing forage for animals. The seed is also eaten by many species of birds.

In our area, it is considered a weed by most, and there are a variety of methods to try to control and/or eliminate it. By others, henbit is considered a wildflower and edible plant. Your choice. I don't eat or use it for medicinal purposes, but the flowers (when blooming in mass) are kind of pretty. My husband only sees it as a weed and will mow it down. Because we do things organically, he doesn't use an herbicide on our lawn. In Missouri, henbit is common and widespread. Although it is almost universally viewed as a weed, it is not a serious one because its roots are so shallow and it fades before crops begin to grow.