This is a very common wayside and meadow plant and in my garden at least it is also a persistent and successful lawn weed. Nearly always blue it can be occasionally white and rarely pink. In the old days it was also known as Carpenter's Herb as they used it to treat cuts and abrasions. The styptic properties of Prunella vulgaris cause blood vessels to contract, stopping bleeding from a wound and so promoting self healing.
Helsby 28th September 2004
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Added on December 3rd 2004