Summer flower spikes

Self-heal

Prunella vulgaris

Small purple heads mark places where mowing pauses long enough for flowers to return.

Pressed botanical specimen of Self-heal

Season Window

01 Jun – 15 Sep

Short grassland, lawns, paths and open woodland edges

Harvest

How we meet this plant

Take only a little flowering growth from clean, plentiful patches and leave flowers for insects.

Preparation

At the kitchen table

Traditionally used in simple teas and external washes; evidence for specific health claims is limited.

Community Use

Why we teach it

A practical plant for learning how flowering lawns support both people and pollinators.

Safety

Check identity and seek professional advice before medicinal use, especially during pregnancy or alongside medicines.