Overview
Stachys officinalis is a perennial herb in the genus Stachys, part of the Q53476 family. It typically grows around 0.6 m tall. Stachys officinalis grows best in full sun, and tolerates sandy and loamy soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include herbal medicine and ornamental garden plant. It is native to Europe, western Asia and northern Africa.
About
Stachys officinalis is a perennial herb reaching about 0.6 m, notable for its mildly aromatic leaves. It flowers from June to September. It favours full sun and performs best in sandy or loamy soils that are moist but well-drained. Native to Europe, western Asia and northern Africa, it has long been grown for both ornamental use and herbal medicine.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Betonica officinalis
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 officinalis is a clump-forming perennial herb from Europe, western Asia and northern Africa, grown both for garden colour and traditional herbal use. Plants reach roughly 0.6 m and produce aromatic foliage that can be appreciated close to paths or seating areas. Flowering takes place from June to September. Plant in a sunny spot where the soil is on the sandy or loamy side yet kept moist but well-drained; avoid heavy waterlogged ground. Its UK hardiness rating is H7, which means it is fully hardy across the British Isles, and it also corresponds to USDA zones 5–10. Allow enough space for individual clumps when placing it in borders to prevent overcrowding. Use Betony in sunny herb beds, mixed perennial borders or near walkways where its scented leaves can be noticed. Given its size and flowering period, it pairs well with taller summer-flowering perennials that provide contrast after June. The mildly aromatic foliage is a practical feature for planting where leaf scent will be appreciated close to the house or seating areas.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Stachys
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Stachys officinalis size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Perennial herb
- Height
- 0.6 m
- Suggested uses
- Herbal medicine, ornamental garden plant
- Native to
- Europe, western Asia, northern Africa
- Fragrance
- Mildly aromatic leaves
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Stachys officinalis
- Cultivation
- Prefers well-drained soil, avoid waterlogging, can tolerate partial shade
- Pruning
- Cut back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage fresh growth
- Propagation
- Seed, division
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Stachys officinalis?
Prefers well-drained soil, avoid waterlogging, can tolerate partial shade.
Where is the best place to plant Stachys officinalis?
Stachys officinalis prefers full sun.
What soil does Stachys officinalis need?
Stachys officinalis grows best in sandy and loamy soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Stachys officinalis?
Cut back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage fresh growth.
How big does Stachys officinalis grow?
Stachys officinalis reaches a height of 0.6 m.
Is Stachys officinalis hardy in the UK?
Stachys officinalis 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 officinalis?
Seed, division.
More in the Stachys genus
- Stachys 'Hidalgo'
- Stachys albens
- Stachys alpinalimestone woundwort
- Stachys arvensisfield woundwort
- Stachys byzantinalamb's ear
- Stachys byzantina 'Cotton Boll'lamb's ear 'Cotton Boll'
- Stachys chrysantha
- Stachys coccineascarlet woundwort
