Photo: José Belem Hernández DíazCC BY 4.0

1 named cultivar

‘Hot Spot Coral’Hot Spot Coral Stachys

perennial

Texas Betony

Stachys coccinea

Same species

1 named cultivar

‘Hot Spot Coral’Hot Spot Coral Stachys

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate, drought tolerant once established

Humidity

Average garden humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Southwestern U.S., Mexico

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Stachys coccinea, commonly known as Scarlet Hedgehog, is a perennial herbaceous plant recognized for its upright growth, vibrant scarlet flower spikes, and soft, aromatic foliage that attracts pollinators. This species is particularly valued for its long-lasting, intensely colored flowers that provide striking visual interest in borders and are a magnet for hummingbirds.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides vibrant red spikes that attract visual interest and pollinators, enhancing garden biodiversity.

Aromatic foliage can be used in herbal preparations and natural remedies.

Supports local pollinator populations, especially bees and butterflies.

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring.
Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist.
Provide full sun for optimal flowering.
Apply balanced fertilizer every 6 weeks during growing season.
Divide plants every 2-3 years in early spring.
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Ensure well-drained soil to prevent root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
Prune after flowering to maintain shape
Mulch to conserve moisture

Don't

Avoid overwatering ❌
Don’t fertilize late in the season
Refrain from heavy pruning in fall

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Wildflower meadow borderAromatic herb gardenInformal shrubbery

Companion Plants

Lavender Salvia Yarrow Coreopsis Echinacea

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Texas Betony questions

What zones can Texas Betony grow in?

Texas Betony is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Texas Betony deer resistant?

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

When does Texas Betony bloom?

Texas Betony 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 Texas Betony need full sun?

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

Is Texas Betony drought tolerant?

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