How to Grow Lamium Chequers
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Lamium Chequers
Lamium maculatum 'Chequers'
flowerLamium Chequers is a variegated cultivar of spotted deadnettle, valued as a semi-evergreen groundcover with distinctive silver and green checkered foliage and mauve-pink flowers. It forms a low, dense mat perfect for borders, woodland gardens, and containers. This hardy perennial requires minimal maintenance once established and spreads gently through creeping stems.
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Example Lamium Chequers timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Lamium Chequers
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Lamium Chequers blooms
Around Jul 16≈ 90 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Lamium Chequers dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-8; tolerates zone 9 with afternoon shade
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Seedling
3-4 weeksTiny leaves emerge with minimal variegation; very delicate appearance
Keep soil evenly moist; provide bright, indirect light. Do not allow to dry out. Avoid transplanting until at least 2-3 true leaves develop.
Vegetative Establishment
4-6 weeksVariegated pattern becomes visible on emerging leaves; low creeping stems begin forming; plant is still low to ground
Begin spacing out watering slightly. Pinch back leading stems to encourage bushier, denser growth. Transition to outdoor light gradually if container-grown.
Spreading & Foliage Development
6-10 weeksSilver-and-green checkered pattern fully develops; creeping stems elongate and root at nodes; dense mat begins to form
Reduce watering frequency as root system deepens; foliage becomes more drought-tolerant. No fertilizer needed if soil is adequate. Mulch around base lightly to suppress competing weeds.
Flowering
4-6 weeks per bloom cycleMauve-pink or lilac tubular flowers appear in clusters along stems; typically occurs in spring (April-June) and again lightly in fall
Deadheading is optional but encourages denser growth; remove faded flowers to redirect energy to foliage. Continue moderate watering during bloom.
Mature Groundcover
Ongoing (perennial)Full mat of variegated foliage covering designated area; plant is self-sustaining with minimal care; may produce sporadic flowers throughout growing season
In early spring, trim back any dead or winter-damaged stems. Divide overcrowded mats every 2-3 years. Fertilize lightly in spring with balanced or low-nitrogen fertilizer if desired.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Ensure good air circulation; avoid overhead watering. Apply sulfur dust or neem oil if severe. Remove affected leaves.
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Improve drainage; avoid waterlogged conditions. Remove and discard affected portions; treat remaining plant with fungicide if necessary.
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Hand-pick in early morning or evening. Create barriers with copper tape or diatomaceous earth. Use beer traps or organic slug pellets if needed.
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Remove infected leaves promptly; improve air circulation. Apply copper fungicide if widespread.
Uses
Edible flower garnish
CulinaryThe small mauve flowers are edible and can be used as a delicate garnish for salads and desserts, adding mild herbal flavor and visual appeal. [source]
Groundcover and landscape design
HouseholdExcellent for filling shaded borders, woodland edges, and underplanting areas beneath trees and shrubs. The striking variegated foliage provides year-round visual interest in difficult-to-plant spaces. [source]
Dried flower and foliage arrangements
CraftStems and flowers dry well for use in dried arrangements, wreaths, and pressed flower crafts. The silver-variegated leaves retain color when dried. [source]
Traditional herbal remedy
MedicinalLamium species have been used in traditional herbalism for anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties. Modern use is limited, but it is sometimes included in herbal teas. [source]
Pollinator support
WildlifeThe spring and fall flowers attract bees and other beneficial pollinators. This is a valuable food source for early-season and late-season insect populations. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Lamium Chequers is ornamental; harvesting is not typical. However, stems can be cut for fresh arrangements or dried for crafts during the growing season. Cut stems just above a leaf node to encourage branching. Light trimming throughout the season promotes denser growth and maintains compact form.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The common name 'deadnettle' comes from the plant's resemblance to stinging nettle, but it has no stinging hairs—hence 'dead' nettle.
- 🌱 The variegated pattern on Lamium Chequers' leaves is a natural mutation that intensifies in cooler weather and partial shade; in full shade, the silver marking may fade slightly.
- 🌱 Lamium maculatum is native to Europe and Western Asia, where it has been used in traditional European cottage gardens for centuries as a naturalizing groundcover in shaded woodlands.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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