This perennial is semi-evergreen so it can lose some of its leaves in winter. In colder regions or more exposed gardens, it may lose them all, but then fresh new growth appears again in spring.

• Position: partial to full shade
• Soil: any garden soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: May to July
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  A non-invasive dead nettle with non-stinging, slightly hairy, heart-shaped, dark green leaves and spikes of sage-like pinkish purple flowers in late spring and summer. Lamium orvala is a handsome and delicate looking plant that's perfect for a woodland garden where it thrives in most soils in a shady spot is valued for its ground cover abilities and pollinator-friendly flowers.
  
  
• Garden care: If you are growing this in dry shade, keep it well watered until it is established. After it has finished flowering, remove the faded flower heads to encourage fresh new foliage. Once established, lift and divide large clumps in late autumn or early spring.