perennial

Downy Woundwort

Stachys germanica

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

30 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Drought tolerant

Humidity

Prefers dry to moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe, Western Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

An upright, clump-forming herbaceous perennial with densely woolly, grey-green stems and leaves. Spikes of small, two-lipped, pale pink to purple flowers appear in summer. This species is appreciated for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in well-drained soils, making it a popular choice for low-maintenance gardens and xeriscaping.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Adds textured purple foliage and flowers, creating visual interest in borders and groundcovers.

Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, ideal for xeriscaping.

Attracts beneficial insects and pollinators, supporting local biodiversity.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in spring.
Water lightly until established, about 2 weeks.
Place in full sun for best flowering.
Mulch around base to retain moisture.
Prune after flowering to maintain shape.
Divide clumps every 3 years in early spring.

Pro Tip

Ensure well-drained soil and full sun for robust growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
Prune lightly after flowering
Divide every 3 years to rejuvenate

Don't

Overwater to prevent root rot ❌
Allow soil to stay soggy
Neglect pruning after blooming

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Divide
Plant
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver‑foliaged groundcoverPollinator-friendly border

Companion Plants

Lavender Sedum Yarrow Salvia Coreopsis

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Downy Woundwort questions

What zones can Downy Woundwort grow in?

Downy Woundwort is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Downy Woundwort deer resistant?

Yes — Downy Woundwort is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Downy Woundwort bloom?

Downy Woundwort typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Downy Woundwort need full sun?

Downy Woundwort does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Downy Woundwort drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Downy Woundwort handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.