Stachys germanica
downy woundwort
A densely woolly biennial wildflower, up to 1m high in flower, with basal rosettes of lance-shaped, serrated leaves covered with fine white hairs. Small purple-pink flowers are borne in whorls around the upright stems in the summer of the second year
Buy this plant
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
1–2 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green Grey Silver | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Purple Pink | Green Grey Silver | ||
| Autumn | Green Grey Silver | |||
| Winter | Green Grey Silver |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H4Botanical details
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- Yes
- Foliage
- Semi evergreen
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Genus
Stachys can be annuals, perennials or shrubs, with paired leaves which are sometimes unpleasantly aromatic, and erect spikes or racemes of whorled, 2-lipped flowers
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Thrives in open but sheltered sites, on well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline soils in sun or part shade. Prefers warm dry summers and does not compete well in crowded planting sites
Propagation
Propagate by seed, needs light to germinate
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Gravel garden
- Wildflower meadow
- Wildlife gardens
- Banks and slopes
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
May be susceptible to slugs, snails and tortrix moth larvae as well as mice, voles and rabbits
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.