About

Betonica officinalis 'Summer Snowcone' is an upright perennial that grows up to 60 cm tall, forming a rosette of foliage. Its leaves are mid-green, scalloped, and have a wrinkled texture, reaching lengths of up to 12 cm. In summer and early autumn, this plant produces dense spikes of white flowers at its terminal ends.

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 shade, Partial shade
Soil type
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
Aspect
East-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H7

Plant details

Plant type
Herbaceous Perennial
Habit
Clump forming
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
0.5-1 metres
Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years
Suggested uses
Cottage and informal garden, Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens

Care notes

Cultivation
Grow in well-drained soil in sun or partial shade. Protect from excessive winter wet. Suitable for banks, gravel gardens, raised bed, ground cover, wildlife gardens or rock garden
Pruning
No pruning required
Propagation
Propagate by seed or division
Pest resistance
May be susceptible to slugs
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free