Stachys officinalis
betony
A rosette-forming, upright perennial to 60cm, with scalloped, wrinkled, veined, mid-green leaves to 12cm long, and dense terminal spikes of pink, white or reddish-purple flowers in summer and early autumn
Other common names
bishop's wortwood betony
Synonyms
Betonica foliosa C.Presl.Stachys officinalis
see moreStachys monieri misapplied
Stachys betonica
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Purple Red | Green | ||
| Autumn | Purple Red | Green | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or East–facing or North–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous or Semi evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy, Clump forming
- Genus
Betonica is a genus of native perennial wildflowers with narrow, oval leaves on upright stems. Bright purple to red flowers appear throughout the summer and into early autumn.
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Eurasia, N. Africa
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in well-drained soil in sun or partial shade. Protect from winter excessive wet. Suitable for dry bank, gravel garden, raised bed or rock garden
Propagation
Propagate by seed or division
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Gravel garden
- Wildlife gardens
- Wildflower meadow
- City and courtyard gardens
- Coastal
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
May be susceptible to slugs
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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