Weed-opedia: Henbit

Henbit (Lamium Amplexicaule)

What does it look like?:  Henbit is in the mint family and has the requisite square stem.  Although fairly attractive, it can quickly become invasive.  It prefers good soil and often appears when a lawn is thin and in the process of being established. The leaves are opposite each other, toothed, and the lower leaves are larger, with a stalk.  Whorled, trumpet-shaped flowers of pink to purple, form in spring in the upper leaves.

What causes it?:  Sparse turf. Spreads by seed.

When does it show up?:  Early spring.

Best treatment plan: Seeds germinate in the fall, so a pre-emergent herbicide in the fall is the best bet to prevent next spring’s crop.  In the spring, use a post-emergent for any survivors. Hand-pulling works for small infestations.  Call a professional for a free quote.

How long will it take to get rid of it?:   Treatment in the fall should prevent growing in the spring.  But once emerged, proper treatment can quickly eradicate those.