About Galeopsis bifida Boenn.
Galeopsis bifida Boenn., commonly called hempnettle, can grow up to 1 meter tall. All leaves and flowers of this species are hairy. Its simple leaves measure 1 to 5 inches long, are arranged oppositely along the stem, have serrate margins, an ovate shape, and are pubescent on both surfaces. The stem is swollen just below each leaf node. Flowers may be purple, white, or pink, and grow in terminal axillary clusters. This species is native to Europe and Asia. In the British Isles, it is found mainly in Wales and Scotland. It occurs across all of Canada, as well as in the northeastern and midwestern regions of the United States, and has been introduced to Alaska. It has also been introduced to parts of New Zealand and the Canary Islands. Hempnettle most often grows in disturbed sites, roadsides, gardens, agricultural lands, and wet heaths, and sometimes occurs in woods. It forms a dense mid-forb layer that outcompetes and dominates typical grass and low forb species. It can grow with limited nutrients, requires moist soil, and generally tolerates both moderately acidic and moderately basic soils.
