Overview
Stachys germanica is a perennial herb in the genus Stachys, part of the Lamiaceae family. It typically grows around 1.0 m tall. Stachys germanica grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is native to Albania, Austria, Baleares, Belarus, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canary Is., Central European Russia, Corse, Czechia-Slovakia, France and Germany.
About
Stachys germanica is a species in the genus Stachys, a member of the mint family Lamiaceae, noted within the genus for producing spike-like inflorescences. Flowering in the UK runs from June to September. The genus name derives from the Greek for 'an ear of grain', a reference to the often spiked flower arrangement. Several members of the genus are grown in gardens for foliage or flowers.
About the genus
Stachys is a genus of plants, one of the largest in the mint family Lamiaceae. Estimates of the number of species vary from about 300 to about 450. Plants of the World Online accepts 373 species.
Wikipedia contributors, "Stachys", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Stachys
In the garden
Stachys germanica sits within a large group of plants in the family Lamiaceae. The genus Stachys was established by Linnaeus and occurs across Europe, Asia, Africa, Australasia and North America; the name refers to the typical spike-like inflorescences found in many species. Several Stachys species have established horticultural roles: S. byzantina for its silvery leaves and S. affinis for its edible tubers, while others are cultivated for their flower spikes. Growing needs differ widely between Stachys species, so seek information specific to S. germanica when planning planting or care. Some species are used in beds and borders for summer flower, others for foliage texture or specialised uses, which means site, soil and hardiness requirements cannot be assumed from the genus alone. Suppliers, botanical gardens and specialist literature will give species-level guidance on exposure and winter protection. Because a number of Stachys are garden-worthy, S. germanica may suit dedicated herbaceous borders or a specialist Stachys collection where its flowering habit can be compared with related species. In the UK it flowers from June to September, providing a clear summer display window for assessment and placement in the planting scheme.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Stachys
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Exposure
- Full sun
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Stachys germanica size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Perennial herb
- Height
- 1.0 m
- Native to
- Albania, Austria, Baleares, Belarus, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canary Is., Central European Russia, Corse, Czechia-Slovakia, France, Germany
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Stachys germanica
- Propagation
- Seed, division
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Stachys germanica?
Stachys germanica prefers full sun. It suits full sun positions.
What soil does Stachys germanica need?
Stachys germanica is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How big does Stachys germanica grow?
Stachys germanica reaches a height of 1.0 m.
Is Stachys germanica hardy in the UK?
Stachys germanica has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Stachys germanica?
Seed, division.
