Stachys officinalis
Betony
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Betony (Stachys officinalis) - Description
Stachys officinalis is commonly known as betony, purple betony, wood betony, bishopwort, or bishop's wort. The French common name is betoine, and betonie in German. It is a perennial grassland herb growing to 1 to 2 feet tall. The name betony is alleged to derive from the ancient Celtic words bew (head) and ton (good), an indication of its use for headaches. The word stachys comes from the Greek, meaning "an ear of grain," and refers to the fact that the inflorescence is often a spike.
Betony (Stachys officinalis) - Blooming
Blooms tubular, 2-lipped flowers in white, yellow, pink, red, or purple. Often attracts bees and butterflies. Most species are malodorous.
Betony (Stachys officinalis) - 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.
Betony (Stachys officinalis) - 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.
Betony (Stachys officinalis) - Pest
Slugs and caterpillars. Other issues include powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot.
Betony (Stachys officinalis) - Interesting facts
There are 300 species of Stachys.
Betony (Stachys officinalis) - 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.
