Bifid Hemp-nettle

Hempnettle could grow up to 1 meter high. Its leaves and flowers are hairy. Leaves are simple, 1 to 5 inches long, opposite, margins are serrate and ovate in shape, pubescent on both sides. The stem is swollen below the leaf nodes. Its flowers can be purple, white or pink and are terminal in axillary clusters.

Galeopsis bifida is native to Europe and Asia. In the British Isles it is mainly found in Wales and Scotland. It occurs throughout Canada, the northeastern and midwestern parts of the United States, and has been introduced to Alaska. It was also introduced in some parts of New Zealand and the Canary Islands.

Hempnettle mostly grow in disturbed sites, roadsides, gardens, agricultural lands, wet heaths and sometimes in woods. It creates a dense mid-forb layer dominating the regular grass and low forbs. It utilizes limited nutrients and requires moist soil, usually prefers moderate levels of acid and basic soils.

The seeds of this plant are edible and have been found in large quantities in European archeological sites. A study done on the seeds show no toxicity in mice and high potential for bioavailable antioxidants to humans. According to Samuel Thayer, many people have eaten the leaves mistaking them for stinging nettle; they are not toxic but unpalatable.

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