About
Betonica macrantha 'Violacea' is a low-growing, clump-forming perennial that blooms in summer, showcasing clusters of soft purple-pink flowers on upright stems reaching about 0.6m (2ft) in height. The plant features lush, scalloped green leaves with a crinkled texture. Its flowers are highly appealing to bees and various pollinators, making it an excellent option for wildlife-friendly gardens.
About the genus
Betonica comprises a group of perennial wildflowers native to the region, characterized by their slender, oval leaves that grow on erect stems. The plants produce vibrant flowers that range from purple to red, blooming from summer through early autumn.
Growing conditions
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Deciduous, Semi evergreen
- Height
- 0.5-1 metres
- Spread
- 0.5-1 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Patio and container plants
- Fragrance
- Foliage
Care notes
- Cultivation
- Grow in well-drained soil in full sun. Tolerant of partial shade. Protect from excessive winter wet.
- Pruning
- Remove old stems and foliage as plant dies back for the winter
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed at 21°C (70F) in spring and by basal or stem-tip softwood cuttings in spring. Propagate by division in spring
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to slug and snail damage
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to powdery mildews and root rot in heavy wet soil