Field woundwort

stachys arvensis

Also known as: ["Field betony","Lambs tongue"]

Family: Lamiaceae Genus: Stachys Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A low-growing annual herbaceous plant with square stems and small, pale pink or white flowers.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Lamiales
Family: Lamiaceae
Genus: Stachys
Botanical Name: Stachys arvensis

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a sunny to partially shaded area
  • Suitable For:
    Busy People (low Maintenance) Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: very low
  • Toughness Level: very high
  • Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done anytime; major pruning in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size or shape.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Adjust for intense summer sun by providing afternoon shade.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from scorching midday sun; for indoor plants, place near a south-facing window with sheer curtains.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or improper watering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
very easy

easy

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid direct sun on leaves during peak hours.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter

Water deeply but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-drained, moderately fertile loam

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; top-dress with compost annually.

Temperature

Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates mild heat but may struggle in prolonged high temperatures.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none required in winter

Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; use organic options like compost tea for gentle feeding; stop fertilizing in late fall.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division. Stem cuttings are the most common method for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
  4. Plant in moist medium.
  5. Keep humid and warm.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid environment with indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand for added aeration.

Hormone

Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.

Timeline

Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting bottle, plastic bag (for humidity).

Quick Tips

Use sharp, clean tools; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips to encourage branching; cut stems just above a leaf node or bud.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged stems.

Tools

Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.

Checklist

Use clean tools; prune dead or diseased stems first; make cuts at a 45-degree angle; dispose of clippings properly.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before the growing season begins.

Pot Size

Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter) than the current one.

Method

Remove the plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Young plants may need repotting annually.

Checklist

Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in shade for a few days.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water early morning; ensure drainage; reduce frequency in winter.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without saturating the soil. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water precisely to the root zone.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water lightly and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

Low temperatures can cause leaf damage, slow growth, or dormancy. Frost can be lethal.

Solution: Protect with frost cloth or mulch; move potted plants indoors; avoid watering before cold nights.

Hot Stress

Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering.

Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase humidity; water deeply but infrequently.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding; rinse tools after use.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall). Avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing of leaves in Stachys arvensis can indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and overall plant vigor.

Wilting in Stachys arvensis is often a sign of water stress, either due to drought or root damage, which can impair nutrient uptake and lead to plant decline.

Leaf spots on Stachys arvensis may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthetic area and potential defoliation if severe.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Stachys arvensis is typically caused by excessive moisture and poor drainage, leading to decay of plant tissues and potential death of the plant.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Stachys arvensis is non-toxic to cats. It does not produce toxic effects or physiological impacts when consumed by felines.

🌿 Toxic Parts:
entire plant
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

While non-toxic, ingestion should still be discouraged to prevent potential gastrointestinal discomfort.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Stachys arvensis is non-toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects or physiological impacts when ingested by canines.

🌿 Toxic Parts:
entire plant
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Although non-toxic, ingestion in large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to non-specific irritation.
Humans
Non-toxic

Stachys arvensis is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It has no significant toxic effects or physiological impact when ingested in typical amounts.

🌿 Toxic Parts:
entire plant
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

While non-toxic, it is not recommended for consumption as it has no culinary or medicinal value.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Stachys arvensis toxic to pets?

A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.

Q: How does Stachys arvensis grow?

A: It is an annual plant that spreads easily in disturbed soils.

Q: Does Stachys arvensis attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies.

Quick Reference
Family: Lamiaceae
Care: very easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["busy people (low maintenance)","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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