Red Hemp-Nettle Galeopsis angustifolia
Red Hemp-Nettle (Galeopsis angustifolia) is a declining arable weed of open, calcareous and sandy soils, its narrow leaves and reddish-pink flowers distinguishing it from its commoner relatives. It has suffered severe losses across Britain due to herbicide use, improved seed cleaning, and the decline of traditional arable practices. Suffolk's Breckland – with its light, chalky, and sandy arable soils – is one of the most important remaining areas for this species in England. Conservation headland schemes and targeted arable weed management at key Breckland sites have been important in maintaining populations. It remains a rare and notable find in the county. Image: © Wolfgang Bacher, iNaturalist.
Find out more: iNaturalist, Plantlife, Online Atlas of the British and Irish Flora
Suffolk’s Priority Fern and Flowering Plant Species
Key
Listed as a conservation priority in Suffolk’s Biodiversity Action Plan.
Closely associated with Suffolk’s landscape and natural identity.
Identified as a key priority for recovery under Suffolk’s Local Nature Recovery Strategy.
Has a Species of the Month article attached.
