You can find this plant throughout North America and temperate climates around the world. When you recognize it, leave a comment below with its common name, scientific name, and any personal story you may have about the plant.
Young plant
Group of plants
Leaf arrangement and stem
Inflorescence
Inflorescence from above
Inflorescence with developing seeds
Dried (dead) plant
ANSWER (subsequently added to this post to facilitate the “search” function for these images): Heal-all (Prunella vulgaris)
self heal
Latin name is Prunella vulgaris. I had to look this up since I’ve never seen it here. Thanks to Jessica.
Prunella vulgaris, heal-all or self- heal, found in lawns and grassy patches nearly everywhere…a member of the mint family if i recall properly
Yes, this is Heal-all which has a second common name used just as often: Self-heal. Lana and Pam have correctly provided the scientific name of Prunella vulgaris (a member of the Mint family).
theres something near our ponds that looks similar to this but it has very tiny prickers on it that HURT! the stem and shape of leaves is similar but the leaves are alternate i believe. it looks harmless until you touch it without gloves – OUCH! any ideas?
Perhaps it is a kind of nettle. Wood nettle (Laportea canadensis) has alternate leaves. Check out this post: http://identifythatplant.com/another-nettle/