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Description
Stachys Floridana, commonly known as Florida Betony, is a perennial flowering plant that is native to the southeastern United States. It belongs to the Lamiaceae family and is known for its showy pink to purple flowers and distinctive square stems. The plant’s leaves are glossy green and have a slightly toothed margin. It also produces small tubers that are edible but bitter.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Stachys |
Appearance
Florida Betony can reach a height of up to 2 feet tall and spreads via underground rhizomes. It has a bushy growth habit and produces spikes of tubular pink to purple flowers that bloom from spring to summer. The plant’s glossy green leaves are arranged in opposite pairs along the stem and can reach up to 5 inches long. The stem is square and can be up to 1/4 inch thick.
Care Guide
Florida Betony is a hardy plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant should be watered regularly but not overwatered, as it is susceptible to root rot. Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Florida Betony is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Florida Betony is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. The plant may also be affected by spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Florida Betony is native to the southeastern United States and can be found in a variety of habitats, including open woods, fields, and disturbed areas. It prefers well-draining soils and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Florida Betony poisonous?
A: While not poisonous, the plant’s tubers are bitter and not commonly consumed.
Q: Can Florida Betony be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Florida Betony can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage.
Q: How often should Florida Betony be fertilized?
A: Florida Betony should be fertilized once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Does Florida Betony attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Florida Betony is attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Related Plants
- Stachys byzantina
- Stachys palustris
- Stachys sylvatica
References
- “Stachys floridana.” University of Florida. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp093
- “Florida Betony (Stachys floridana).” Gardening Know How. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/groundcover/florida-betony/growing-florida-betony.htm
- “Stachys floridana.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c870
