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Description
Stachys Tenuifolia, also known as slender hedgenettle, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the mint family Lamiaceae. It is native to North America and can be found in most of the United States and Canada. The plant grows up to 2 feet tall and has a spread of up to 1 foot. It has a square stem, opposite leaves, and produces spikes of small, pinkish-purple flowers in the summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Stachys |
Appearance
Stachys Tenuifolia has a unique appearance that makes it stand out from other plants. It has a square stem that is covered in fine hairs, and its leaves are opposite, lance-shaped, and toothed. The leaves are also covered in fine hairs and have a slightly fuzzy texture. The flowers of the plant are small, pinkish-purple, and grow on spikes that emerge from the top of the stem. The plant blooms in the summer and can attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
To care for Stachys Tenuifolia, you should provide it with well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and should be watered regularly, especially during dry periods. Fertilize the plant in early spring with a balanced fertilizer, and prune it back in the fall to promote new growth. Stachys Tenuifolia is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Stachys Tenuifolia is generally not susceptible to many pests or diseases. However, it can be affected by spider mites, which can cause yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth. To prevent spider mites, keep the plant well-watered and spray it with a mixture of water and insecticidal soap. The plant can also be affected by powdery mildew, which appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves. To prevent powdery mildew, make sure the plant is in a well-ventilated area and avoid overhead watering.
Habitat
Stachys Tenuifolia is a native plant to North America and can be found in various habitats, including meadows, prairies, and open woods. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate drought conditions. The plant is also attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies, making it a popular choice for gardeners who want to attract wildlife to their gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Stachys Tenuifolia a perennial or an annual plant?
A: Stachys Tenuifolia is a perennial plant.
Q: What is the ideal growing environment for Stachys Tenuifolia?
A: Stachys Tenuifolia prefers well-drained soil, full sun to partial shade, and regular watering.
Q: How do you propagate Stachys Tenuifolia?
A: Stachys Tenuifolia can be propagated by dividing the plant in the spring or by taking stem cuttings in the summer.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Stachys Tenuifolia?
A: Stachys Tenuifolia is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Stachys Tenuifolia:
- Stachys Byzantina
- Stachys Monieri
- Stachys Palustris
- Stachys Officinalis
References
- “Stachys tenuifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 18 Oct. 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=m810>.
- “Stachys tenuifolia.” Plant Database. Accessed 18 Oct. 2021. <https://gobotany.nativeplanttrust.org/species/stachys/tenuifolia/>.
- “Stachys tenuifolia.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed 18 Oct. 2021. <https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=STAT5>.
