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Description
Stachys Aspera, commonly known as Rough Betony, is a hardy perennial plant belonging to the mint family. It is native to Europe and Western Asia and is often used for its medicinal properties. The plant grows up to 60cm tall and has a spread of approximately 45cm. It produces a dense cluster of purplish pink flowers in summer that are attractive to bees and butterflies. The leaves are hairy and have a rough texture, which gives the plant its common name.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Stachys |
Appearance
The Rough Betony plant has a bushy appearance with a rounded shape. It has a sturdy stem that grows from a basal rosette of leaves. The stem is square-shaped and hairy. The leaves are ovate in shape, and the edges are serrated. The leaves are also hairy and have a rough texture, which gives the plant its common name. The flowers are produced in dense spikes and are pinkish-purple in color. The flowers have a tubular shape and are approximately 2cm long. The plant blooms in summer and attracts bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Water: Stachys Aspera prefers well-drained soil, so it is important not to overwater the plant. Water the plant once a week, or when the soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization. However, applying a slow-release fertilizer once a month during the growing season can be beneficial.
Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, from sandy to clayey soils.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can result in leggy growth and fewer flowers.
Hardiness Zones: Stachys Aspera is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Rough Betony plant is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is poorly drained. Overwatering can also lead to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew. Common pests that can affect the plant include spider mites and aphids. These pests can be controlled by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Stachys Aspera is native to Europe and Western Asia. It can be found growing in meadows, fields, and along roadsides. The plant prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of soil types. It is also drought-tolerant and can survive in areas with low rainfall.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Stachys Aspera a medicinal plant?
A: Yes, Stachys Aspera has been used for its medicinal properties for centuries. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
Q: Can Stachys Aspera be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Stachys Aspera can be grown in containers. However, the plant prefers well-drained soil, so it is important to ensure that the container has adequate drainage holes.
Q: How often should Stachys Aspera be fertilized?
A: Stachys Aspera does not require frequent fertilization. Applying a slow-release fertilizer once a month during the growing season can be beneficial.
Q: Can Stachys Aspera tolerate cold temperatures?
A: Yes, Stachys Aspera is hardy in USDA zones 4-9 and can tolerate cold temperatures.
Related Plants
- Stachys byzantina (Lamb’s Ear)
- Stachys monieri (Hummelo Betony)
- Stachys officinalis (Betony)
- Stachys palustris (Marsh Woundwort)
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden, Stachys aspera, available at https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281464
- RHS, Stachys aspera, available at https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/14427/stachys-aspera/details
- Gardening Know How, Rough Betony Care: How To Grow Rough Betony Plants, available at https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/rough-betony/rough-betony-care.htm
