Water
Water Stachys sylvatica regularly, especially during dry spells, to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top few centimeters of soil to dry out between waterings.
Reduce watering in winter when the plant is dormant.
Also known as Bishopswort · Bishop’s Wort · Hedge Nettle
Betony (Stachys officinalis) is a low-maintenance perennial herb with spikes of purple-pink flowers, attractive to pollinators and suitable for cottage gardens.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial Shade to Sun
50% intensity
Prefers dappled sunlight but can tolerate full sun if kept adequately moist.
Regular
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, allowing the top layer to dry slightly between waterings.
Loamy
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers average room temperatures; hardy and adaptable.
Light
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly in spring with a balanced liquid feed.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water Stachys sylvatica regularly, especially during dry spells, to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top few centimeters of soil to dry out between waterings.
Reduce watering in winter when the plant is dormant.
Deadhead spent flower spikes to encourage further blooming and maintain a tidy appearance. In late autumn or early spring, cut back the plant to the ground to promote new growth and prevent self-seeding if desired.
Stachys sylvatica can be easily propagated by division of clumps in spring or autumn. Seed can also be sown in autumn or early spring. Cuttings can be taken in early summer.
Repot Stachys sylvatica every 2-3 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix and ensure good drainage in the new container.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Whitespot (Stachys sylvatica)
Where Whitespot (Stachys sylvatica) is found

Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Stachys |
| Species | Stachys sylvatica |
Similar in genus Stachys
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data