Galeopsis tetrahit

Galeopsis tetrahit - kare kõrvik Keilas

Galeopsis tetrahit - Bombus veteranus - Keila

Galeopsis tetrahit, commonly known as Common Hemp-nettle, is a species of flowering plant in the family Lamiaceae. It is native to Europe and Asia, but it has been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America.

Description

Galeopsis tetrahit is an annual herb that typically grows to a height of 20-60 cm. The plant has a square stem, which is characteristic of the Lamiaceae family. The stem is often swollen below the nodes and covered with bristly hairs. The leaves are opposite, ovate to lanceolate, and have serrated edges. The flowers are pink, purple, or white and are arranged in whorls in the axils of the upper leaves. Each flower has a two-lipped corolla, with the upper lip being hooded and the lower lip having three lobes.

Habitat

Galeopsis tetrahit thrives in a variety of habitats, including wastelands, roadsides, meadows, and disturbed areas. It prefers moist, nutrient-rich soils and can often be found in areas with partial shade.

Distribution

The plant is widely distributed across Europe and Asia. In North America, it is considered an introduced species and can be found in various regions, particularly in the northeastern United States and eastern Canada.

Uses

Historically, Galeopsis tetrahit has been used in traditional medicine for its purported anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. However, its use in modern medicine is limited, and it is primarily regarded as a weed in agricultural settings.

Ecology

Galeopsis tetrahit is known to attract various pollinators, including bees and butterflies. It plays a role in the ecosystem by providing nectar and pollen for these insects.

Related Species

Galeopsis tetrahit is closely related to other species in the genus Galeopsis, such as Galeopsis speciosa and Galeopsis bifida. These species share similar habitats and morphological characteristics.

Gallery

• Galeopsis tetrahit 001.jpg

  Galeopsis tetrahit in bloom

• Galeopsis tetrahit 002.jpg

  Close-up of flowers

See Also

• Lamiaceae
• Galeopsis
• Invasive species
• Traditional medicine