Annual woundwort
stachys annua
Also known as: ["Woundwort","Lamb's ears"]
Overview
A herbaceous annual plant in the mint family, known for its woolly, grayish-green leaves and small, pale pink to 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 annua |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter; can tolerate average garden soil.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done anytime; major pruning after flowering or in early spring.
- 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; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Ensure soil is not compacted; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot; amend soil with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights but avoids extreme heat.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent humidity; protect from drafts and extreme conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; use a balanced NPK ratio; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are the most common method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting just below a leaf node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Cover with a plastic bag to maintain humidity.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture in the medium.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems for cuttings; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; cut back flower stalks after blooming; remove dead or damaged stems at the base.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts; also prune after flowering to promote reblooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Disinfect tools before use; prune dead or diseased parts first; make clean cuts just above a leaf node or bud.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for refreshing soil and providing more space.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in a shaded area for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry; avoid waterlogging by ensuring proper drainage.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and structure; mix in perlite or sand for better drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage; frost can kill tender parts of the plant.
Solution: Protect with a layer of mulch; move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location; avoid watering before cold nights.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering; may cause the plant to go dormant.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer label for dilution rates; apply during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicStachys annua is not toxic to cats. It does not produce any known harmful effects when ingested by felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicStachys annua is not toxic to dogs. It does not produce any known harmful effects when ingested by canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicStachys annua is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with its consumption.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Stachys annua toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to dogs and cats.
Q: How does Stachys annua grow?
A: It is an annual plant that spreads easily in disturbed soils and can become weedy.
Q: Does Stachys annua attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies with its flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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