Henbit and purple deadnettle are frequently confused for the other and this confusion is not without basis. Both henbit and purple deadnettle are winter annuals, which surface in late winter and early spring. They are also in the mint family and share characteristics like purple flowers, square stems, and leaves spaced opposite of each other. We have compiled their differences below to make identifying them easier this spring.
Henbit
Petioles (stalks that attach leaves to stems) are pronounced on the base
Deeply scalloped leaves
Leaves are glossier when they are more mature
Generally, henbit has more gaps between clusters of leaves
Flowers are longer and slimmer
Deadnettle
Petioles on lower and upper leaves
Leaves are heart-like or triangular-shaped
Less scalloped or defined
Most commonly used selective broadleaf herbicides will provide effective control.