Betony Stachys spathulata

Betony is a rhizomatous perennial in the mint family (Lamiaceae) that is native to southern Africa. In its native habitat, it is found in dry grasslands nad riverbanks under arid to semi-arid conditions. The genus name, Stachys, is Greek meaning ear of corn, and spathulata means shaped like a spatula in reference to the leaf shape. It looks like a shorter verison of Betony 'Hummelo'.

The plant is easy to grow in average, well-drained soil.  Only an average amount of water is required. They do not like waterlogged soils in the winter. Betony is moderately drought tolerant once established. Fertilizing is usually not necessary. For the best flowers and minimum disease problems, grow in full sun.   Betony is only 4-8" tall and should be spaced 12-18” apart. The middle of the clumps eventually die. You can reinvigorate the old clumps by removing the dead middle and planting the remaining clusters closer.

Deadhead the spent flowers to prevent self-seeding. The seedling may be slightly different from the parent. Betony has a semi-evergreen dense rosette of interesting-shaped crinkled dark green leaves. The prolific summer blooms are showy false whorls of rose-purple flowers on 4-8" spikes. The flowers attract bees and butterflies.

Betony can be placed in border fronts, rock gardens, and containers. Mass plantings can be used as a ground cover or accent plant along pathways. Betony is appropriate for fairy and pollinator gardens.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  There are no serious insect or disease problems.  However, during hot and humid conditions, it can develop leaf spots, powdery mildew, and rot.  It can be damaged by slugs and snails.