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Description
Stachys Drummondii, commonly known as Drummond’s hedge nettle, is a flowering plant that belongs to the mint family. It is native to the central and western regions of North America, including Texas, Arizona, New Mexico, and Colorado. This perennial herb can grow up to 2 feet tall and 1.5 feet wide. It has a square stem and numerous branches that bear beautiful pink-purple flowers in summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Stachys |
Appearance
The leaves of Stachys Drummondii are ovate to lanceolate in shape and grow up to 4 inches long. They are hairy and have serrated edges. The flowers are arranged in whorls around the stem and are about 1 inch long. They have a tubular shape and are pink-purple in color. The plant blooms from June to September and attracts bees and butterflies. Stachys Drummondii is a great addition to any garden, as it provides color and texture to the landscape.
Care Guide
Stachys Drummondii is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you keep your plant healthy:
- Water: This plant prefers moderate watering. Water it when the soil feels dry to the touch, but be careful not to overwater it.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Stachys Drummondii prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate different soil types, including sandy and clay soils.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not bloom as well.
- Hardiness Zones: Stachys Drummondii is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Stachys Drummondii is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to spider mites and powdery mildew. Here are some tips to help you prevent and treat these issues:
- Spider Mites: These pests can be prevented by keeping the plant well-watered and by spraying it with a strong stream of water to remove them. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to get rid of them.
- Powdery Mildew: This disease can be prevented by providing good air circulation around the plant and by avoiding overhead watering. You can also use a fungicide to treat it.
Habitat
Stachys Drummondii is native to the central and western regions of North America. It can be found in open woodlands, rocky hillsides, and prairies. It grows well in well-draining soil and prefers full sun to partial shade. This plant is a great addition to a native garden, as it attracts pollinators and provides food and shelter to wildlife.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Stachys Drummondii a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Stachys Drummondii is a great plant for beginners. It is low-maintenance and can tolerate different soil types and light conditions.
Q: Does Stachys Drummondii attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Stachys Drummondii attracts bees and butterflies with its beautiful flowers.
Q: How often should I water Stachys Drummondii?
A: Water your plant when the soil feels dry to the touch. Be careful not to overwater it, as this can lead to root rot.
Q: Can Stachys Drummondii be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Stachys Drummondii can be grown in containers. Make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system, and provide good drainage.
Related Plants
- Stachys byzantina (Lamb’s ear)
- Stachys monieri (Hummelo)
- Stachys officinalis (Betony)
References
- “Stachys drummondii.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed May 2021. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org.
- “Stachys drummondii.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed May 2021. www.wildflower.org.
- “Drummond’s Hedge Nettle.” Texas A&M AgriLife Extension. Accessed May 2021. agrilifeextension.tamu.edu.
