About
A mat-forming perennial to 10cm tall, with rosettes of small, soft, densely silver-woolly leaves. In summer it produces erect spikes of pink flowers. A good tactile plant for a sensory garden.
About the genus
Stachys can be annuals, perennials or shrubs, with paired leaves which are sometimes unpleasantly aromatic, and erect spikes or racemes of whorled, 2-lipped flowers
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitMatforming
FoliageSemi evergreen
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Rock garden
Care notes
CultivationGrow in well-drained, moderately fertile soil in full sun; plants are reasonably drought-resistant once established
PruningTrim back spent flower stems to maintain shape
PropagationPropagate by division
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildew