About
Betonica officinalis 'Ukkie' is a compact herbaceous perennial that forms tight clusters of pink-purple blossoms during the summer months. These flowers rise on short spikes, reaching heights of around 30 cm (12 in), and are set against a backdrop of soft, crinkled green leaves. This plant is particularly beneficial for attracting bees and other pollinators, making it a valuable choice for gardens focused on supporting wildlife.
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
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Wildlife gardens, Gravel garden
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 basal or stem-tip softwood cuttings in spring. Propagate by division in springPropagate by seed at 21°C (70F) in spring. Root 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