Betony - Stachys officinalis - €3 per plant 

Betony is a clumping herbaceous perennial forming lush mounds that flower from late June to September in multiple upright racemes that are very attractive to bees and butterflies. Growing well in partial shade the plant is a good ground cover option for under tree planting.  The leaves can be used to make an excellent tea and the plant has a long tradition of  medicinal use. All in all a wonderful native plant for the ecological garden.   
To order this plant please contact us [email protected].  

Context

  • native region: Europe
  • native habitat: Grassland, hedgebanks, heath and open woods, avoiding calcareous soils
  • family: Lamiaceae or Labiatae

Predators

  • Slugs may be a problem

Needs, tolerances 

  • Light: semi shade - full sun
  • soil pH:  neutral -basic alkaline 
  • USDA Hardiness Zone: 4a - 9b
  • Cannot tolerate acidic soils 

Known hazards 

  • none known

Overview

  • 5 BGN / €3 per plant 
  • Herbaceous perennial growing to 0.6 m by 0.5 m at a fast rate 
  • It is in flower from Jun to September. The flowers are hermaphrodite (have both male and female organs) and are pollinated by Bees.
  • It is noted for attracting wildlife. 
  • Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in heavy clay soil. 
  • Suitable pH: acid, neutral and basic (alkaline) soils. 
  • It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Characteristics

  • form: herb 
  • layer : Herb Layer
  • habit: clumping 
  • height x width (m): 0.6 x 0.5 
  • productive life span:  indefinite

Products 

  • Leaf: Leaves are said to make an excellent tea substitute .
  • A yellow dye is obtained from the leaves
  • Medicinal: Wood betony was at one time commonly used as a medicinal plant in the treatment of a wide range of disorders.
  • Suitable for cut flowers, Suitable for dried flowers.

Functions, behaviours


  • The flowers are very attractive to bees and butterflies.
  • Shows a preference for dryish  light soils such as on sunny banks and hedgerows.
  • Great plant for  low maintenance gardens   Wildflower meadows and wildlife gardens
If you would like this plant please send an email to [email protected] with your order. 
Balkan Ecology Project