water horehound

Lycopus americanus

characteristics

Upright stems are branching, 4-angled and hairy. Leaves are opposite; deeply lobed lower leaves, finely serrated upper leaves. Tiny clusters of white flowers grow on the stem near the leaf axils. The entire plant turns a deep red-purple in the fall. Commonly mistaken for mint at first glance, however, the leaves lack aroma. It is though, a member of the mint family. Has both horizontal rhizomes and fibrous roots. Turns dark purple in the fall.

3,025,308 seeds/pound; starts from seed.

habitat

Roadside ditches, pond and lake edges, meadows.

uses

Attracts a variety of bees and flies.

North American aboriginals found the plant's medicinal qualities useful in treating stomach cramps. The roots were eaten raw or cooked. Also, used as a dye.