A winter annual wildflower and garden invasive in Illinois. Stems are square,leaves are opposite. Flowers measure about half an inch long w/ long tubes and red spotted lips (2).
Preferred habitats are crop fields, lawns, and roadsides.
Originally from Eurasia and Africa.
During Illinois' springs, millions carpet crop fields in a dazzling pink/purple splendor.
Common name Henbit derived from noting chickens eating seeds.

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Edible Uses:
Young leaves of henbit are considered to be edible raw or cooked. They have been used as additions to salads or as a potherb.

Medicinal Uses:
The plant is antirheumatic, excitant, fever-reducing, laxative, stimulant, and has agents that induce sweating.

It is widely naturalised in eastern North America and elsewhere, where it is often considered to be an invasive weed. However, its edibility and readiness to grow in many climes often mean it is permitted to grow when other 'weeds' are not.

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