perennial

Wood Betony

Stachys officinalis

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe and Western Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

A clump-forming perennial with wrinkled, dark green basal leaves and upright spikes of tubular, two-lipped, purple-pink flowers in summer. This species is often used in traditional herbal medicine and can thrive in a variety of soil types.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Stachys officinalis offers attractive, aromatic foliage and vibrant purple flowers, enhancing garden aesthetics.

Its drought tolerance makes it ideal for water-wise gardens and low-maintenance landscapes.

Provides nectar for pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local biodiversity.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
Transplant seedlings when they are strong enough, typically after 6 weeks.
Ensure plants receive full sun for optimal growth.
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Water consistently during dry periods for healthy development.

Pro Tip

Use well-draining soil and full sun for thriving growth and abundant blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply but infrequently to prevent root rot 🌱
Prune dead or damaged stems to encourage new growth
Fertilize with a balanced organic fertilizer in spring
Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature

Don't

Overwater which can lead to fungal diseases ❌
Allow soil to become waterlogged
Neglect pruning which can reduce flowering
Use chemical pesticides excessively

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver-foliaged borderHerb garden centerpieceDrought-tolerant groundcover

Companion Plants

Lavender Rosemary Sage Thyme Yarrow

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Wood Betony questions

What zones can Wood Betony grow in?

Wood Betony is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Wood Betony deer resistant?

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

When does Wood Betony bloom?

Wood Betony typically blooms in early summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Wood Betony need full sun?

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

Is Wood Betony drought tolerant?

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