Freshwater Wetlands/ Cut-leaved Water Horehound

COMMON NAME: Cut-leaved Water Horehound

OTHER COMMON NAME(S): Gypsywort, Wolf Foot, Bitter-Bugle, Rattlesnake-Weed

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Lycopus americanus

FAMILY: Lamiaceae

COMMUNITY: Freshwater wetlands

STATUS: Native

LIFESPAN: Perennial

HEIGHT: 1 to 2 feet

FLOWERING TIME: Early July to October

FRUITING TIME: August to November

DISTRIBUTION: Newfoundland to Florida.  In NJ, statewide outside the central Pine Barrens; most abundant on the coast.

IDENTIFYING CHARACTERISTICS: Leaves are opposite, with upper leaves toothed and lower leaves lobed oaklike ~  White flowers in axillary whorls

GENERAL INFORMATION: This family of plants (Lamiaceae), commonly called the mint family, has 221 genera and 5.600 species of herbs, shrubs and a few trees.  It is a preeminent family of culinary and medical herbs including lavender, rosemary, sage, thyme, mint, balm, marjoram, savory and basil. Native Americans used Cut-leaved Water Horehound in a compound medication for stomach cramps. In the late 1800s, the herb was said to be an antidote for rattlesnake bites.

Please note: While harvesting wild berries/fruit is permitted at Island Beach State Park, visitors must adhere to park regulations at all times and must not damage vegetation or go off designated trails.  This information is presented for educational purposes.