Stachys affinis
Chinese Artichoke
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Chinese Artichoke (Stachys affinis) - Description
Stachys affinis, the Chinese artichoke, chorogi, knotroot, artichoke betony, or crosne, is a perennial herbaceous plant of the family Lamiaceae. Its rhizome can be grown as a root vegetable. While the plant is easy to grow, the tubers are small, convoluted, and indented, so they are considered very tedious, if not difficult to clean properly.
Chinese Artichoke (Stachys affinis) - Blooming
Blooms tubular, 2-lipped flowers in white, yellow, pink, red, or purple. Often attracts bees and butterflies. Most species are malodorous.
Chinese Artichoke (Stachys affinis) - Growth
Annuals, rhizomatous and stoloniferous perennials. There are a few evergreen shrub species. Lamb's Ears do well in full sun and the stems will grow 1-2 ft. S. macrantha, S. officinalis, and S. sylvatica are tolerant of partial shade. Low-growing species, like S. candida, S. citrina, and S. lavandulifolia work well in a dry bank, rock garden, gravel garden, or raised bed. These species need protection from excess moisture during the winter, and grow best in an alpine house. S. byzantina is well suited for a groundcover. Tall perennial species make nice additions to a mixed or herbaceous border. S. sylvatica works best in a wild garden.
Chinese Artichoke (Stachys affinis) - Planting
Propagate from the seed. Sow in fall or spring, containers in a cold frame (for protection and to ensure hardiness). Can also propagate perennials by division of root sections in spring, as growth starts. Propagate shrub species from greenwood cuttings in summer.
Chinese Artichoke (Stachys affinis) - Pest
Slugs and caterpillars. Other issues include powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot.
Chinese Artichoke (Stachys affinis) - Interesting facts
There are 300 species of Stachys.
Chinese Artichoke (Stachys affinis) - Soil and irrigation
Lamb's Ears require infrequent waterings. Does best in well-draining soil with average fertility. Rock garden species prefer gritty soil with sharp drainage.
