Stachys officinalis (L.) Franch., 1885
Betony
Betony, here under the name Stachys officinalis, is a native British perennial of the dead-nettle family and the same plant now often placed in the genus Betonica. It grows from a basal rosette of crinkled, bluntly toothed leaves, sending up slender, largely leafless stems that end in dense, oblong spikes of two-lipped reddish-purple flowers during the summer months.
About
Betony, here under the name Stachys officinalis, is a native British perennial of the dead-nettle family and the same plant now often placed in the genus Betonica. It grows from a basal rosette of crinkled, bluntly toothed leaves, sending up slender, largely leafless stems that end in dense, oblong spikes of two-lipped reddish-purple flowers during the summer months. Its neat form and richly coloured spikes make it a distinctive grassland plant.
It is found on open, well-drained ground such as grassland, heaths, hedge banks and the edges of woods, typically on neutral to slightly acid soils in sun or light shade. The flowers are a strong draw for bumblebees and other long-tongued insects, so betony is a valued component of wildflower meadows, perennial borders and pollinator seed mixes. It also has a long tradition of medicinal use, which is reflected in its many old common names.
In our seed mixes
Beta — under active development. This catalogue is still being built and accuracy-checked. The information here (including plant identifications, British native status, soil and sun/shade preferences) is provided in good faith for general guidance only and may contain errors or omissions. It must not be relied upon on its own — please confirm details with us before making planting, specification, foraging or purchasing decisions, and never eat or medicinally use any plant based on this catalogue alone, as some species are toxic. To the extent permitted by law, Phoenix Amenity Supplies accepts no liability for any loss arising from use of this information.