Overview
Stachys byzantina is a matforming herbaceous perennial in the genus Stachys, part of the Lamiaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 0.1-0.5 metres tall and 0.5-1 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Stachys byzantina grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is attractive to pollinators. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, gravel garden and wildlife gardens. It is native to Caucasus to Iran.
About
Stachys byzantina is a low-growing, evergreen perennial that forms a dense mat with its thick, soft, oblong-elliptic leaves. The stems are covered in a dense layer of white hairs. The basal leaves can reach lengths of up to 10 cm and grow in rosettes, while the flowering stems can rise to 50 cm tall. In summer, it produces purplish or pink flowers, occasionally displaying stripes, which are grouped in multiple whorls along an interrupted spike. There are various cultivars that offer a range of leaf and flower colors. This plant is particularly valued for its attractive foliage.
About the genus
Stachys encompasses annuals, perennials, and shrubs characterized by opposite leaves that may have a strong aroma. The plants produce upright spikes or racemes adorned with whorled, bilabiate flowers.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Stachys
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Stachys byzantina size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Matforming
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Height
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Spread
- 0.5-1 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Wildlife gardens
- Native to
- Caucasus to Iran
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Stachys byzantina
- Cultivation
- Grow in moderately fertile, well-drained soil in full sun
- Pruning
- No pruning required - remove flowers to prolong the life of the plant
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed in containers in a cold frame in autumn or spring. Propagate by division or remove rooted sections in spring
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to slugs and caterpillars
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to powdery mildews
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Stachys byzantina?
Grow in moderately fertile, well-drained soil in full sun.
Where is the best place to plant Stachys byzantina?
Stachys byzantina prefers full sun. It suits exposed positions.
What soil does Stachys byzantina need?
Stachys byzantina is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
How do I prune Stachys byzantina?
No pruning required - remove flowers to prolong the life of the plant.
How big does Stachys byzantina grow?
Stachys byzantina reaches a height of 0.1-0.5 metres and a spread of 0.5-1 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Stachys byzantina hardy in the UK?
Stachys byzantina has a UK hardiness rating of H7.
How do I propagate Stachys byzantina?
Propagate by seed in containers in a cold frame in autumn or spring. Propagate by division or remove rooted sections in spring.
Is Stachys byzantina good for pollinators?
Yes — Stachys byzantina attracts and supports pollinators such as bees and other beneficial insects.