Contents
Description
Stachys Aethiopica, also known as Ethiopian sage, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It is native to Ethiopia and is widely grown as an ornamental plant in gardens due to its attractive foliage and showy flowers. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and spread up to 2 feet wide. It has square stems that are covered with fine hairs, and its leaves are ovate, green, and slightly hairy. The plant produces spikes of pinkish-purple flowers from late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Stachys |
Appearance
Stachys Aethiopica is a beautiful plant that adds color and texture to any garden. Its foliage is green and slightly hairy, while its stems are square and covered with fine hairs. The plant produces spikes of pinkish-purple flowers that are arranged in whorls. The flowers are tubular and have a two-lipped corolla. They bloom from late spring to early summer and attract bees and other pollinators. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and spread up to 2 feet wide. It prefers full sun to part shade and well-drained soil.
Care Guide
Stachys Aethiopica is an easy plant to care for, and with proper care, it can thrive in your garden for many years. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during the growing season. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to part shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not flower as profusely.
- Hardiness Zones: Stachys Aethiopica is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Stachys Aethiopica is generally pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to some problems. Here are some common pests and diseases:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and distorted leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves, which can lead to defoliation. Remove infected leaves and treat with a fungicide.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil. The plant may wilt and eventually die. Improve drainage and reduce watering to prevent this disease.
Habitat
Stachys Aethiopica is native to Ethiopia and grows in rocky areas and open grasslands. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate drought conditions. In gardens, it is often used as a border plant or in mixed borders. It can also be grown in containers.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Stachys Aethiopica deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the plant is deer-resistant.
Q: Can Stachys Aethiopica be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots.
Q: Does Stachys Aethiopica attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant’s flowers attract bees and other pollinators.
Q: How often should I fertilize Stachys Aethiopica?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Stachys byzantina
- Stachys monieri
- Stachys officinalis
- Stachys palustris
References
- “Stachys Aethiopica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 15, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a122.
- “Stachys Aethiopica.” Gardenia.net. Accessed September 15, 2021. https://www.gardenia.net/plant/stachys-aethiopica-ethiopian-sage.
- “Stachys Aethiopica.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed September 15, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/191603/Stachys-aethiopica/Details.
