Overview

Stachys macrantha 'Superba' or 'Robusta' is a perennial in the genus Stachys, part of the Q53476 family. Stachys macrantha 'Superba' or 'Robusta' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include borders and groundcover. It is native to Caucasus, northeastern Turkey and northwestern Iran.

About

Stachys macrantha 'Superba' or 'Robusta' is a perennial Stachys valued for its long summer flowering. It comes from the Caucasus region and neighbouring parts of Turkey and Iran. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade in soils that are well drained yet remain moist, and it flowers from June to September. It suits mixed borders and can be used as a ground cover.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0Betonica macrantha

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 4.0Stachys

In the garden

Stachys macrantha 'Superba' or 'Robusta' is a perennial member of the Stachys group, native to the Caucasus, northeastern Turkey and northwestern Iran. Its native range indicates a tolerance for continental summers, which translates into reliable flowering during the British summer when given the right position. Place this perennial where it receives full sun or at least partial shade and where the soil drains freely while retaining some moisture. Work organic matter into heavier soils to improve structure and moisture-holding capacity without causing waterlogging. Mulching the root area helps moderate moisture levels over the growing season. The cultivar is rated H5, meaning it is hardy and suitable for outdoor planting across most UK gardens without winter protection. Use Stachys macrantha 'Superba' or 'Robusta' in front to mid-border planting or to form a low ground cover beneath taller perennials and shrubs. It complements other summer-flowering perennials and fills gaps with sustained bloom. Expect consistent flowering from June to September once plants are established, providing a lengthy season of interest through the summer months.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Stachys

Sunlight
full sun, partial shade
Soil type
well-drained
Soil moisture
moist
UK hardiness
H5

Plant details

Stachys macrantha 'Superba' or 'Robusta' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
perennial
Suggested uses
borders, groundcover
Native to
Caucasus, northeastern Turkey, northwestern Iran

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Stachys macrantha 'Superba' or 'Robusta'

Cultivation
Prefers moist, well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. Tolerates some drought once established.
Pruning
Cut back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage fresh growth.
Propagation
Division in spring or autumn; seed sowing

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Stachys macrantha 'Superba' or 'Robusta'?

Prefers moist, well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. Tolerates some drought once established.

Where is the best place to plant Stachys macrantha 'Superba' or 'Robusta'?

Stachys macrantha 'Superba' or 'Robusta' prefers full sun and partial shade.

What soil does Stachys macrantha 'Superba' or 'Robusta' need?

Stachys macrantha 'Superba' or 'Robusta' grows best in well-drained soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.

How do I prune Stachys macrantha 'Superba' or 'Robusta'?

Cut back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage fresh growth.

Is Stachys macrantha 'Superba' or 'Robusta' hardy in the UK?

Stachys macrantha 'Superba' or 'Robusta' has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.

How do I propagate Stachys macrantha 'Superba' or 'Robusta'?

Division in spring or autumn; seed sowing.

More in the Stachys genus

Browse all Stachys