Five-lobed motherwort (Leonurus quinquelobatus)
Care, watering, light and tips for Five-lobed motherwort on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Lamiaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 5–35 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Five-lobed motherwort
Leonurus quinquelobatus, commonly known as 'mølleløvehale' or five-lobed motherwort, is a herbaceous perennial plant from the Lamiaceae family, valued for its medicinal properties and attractive foliage. It features upright stems with deeply lobed leaves and pink or purple flowers arranged in axillary whorls, creating a robust and ornamental appearance. It is ideal for herb gardens, rustic borders, or as part of a wildlife garden, attracting pollinators.
Native range
Eastern Europe and Central Asia
Care tips
It prefers full sun to partial shade exposure and tolerates a wide range of soils, although it thrives in well-drained, moderately fertile soil. Watering should be regular during dry periods, but it is quite drought-tolerant once established. A common mistake is over-fertilization, which can promote excessive leafy growth at the expense of flowering and medicinal properties. Pruning after flowering is recommended to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
How to save a dying Five-lobed motherwort
- Warning signs
- Yellow or wilted leaves, soft stems, stunted growth. May show pests like aphids.
- First aid
- Check watering (moist but not waterlogged soil). Prune damaged stems. Move from harsh direct sun.
- What kills it
- Overwatering causing root rot or lack of light. Also intense direct sun in summer.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't completely rotted and conditions are corrected.