Alpine Betony
stachys alpina
Also known as: ["Alpine woundwort","Wood betony"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial with attractive, woolly leaves and spikes of small, pale purple flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Stachys |
| Botanical Name: | Stachys alpina |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border plantings, rock gardens, or woodland edges
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid heavy clay soils that retain too much water.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; can tolerate average garden soil.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done anytime; major pruning after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown, but avoid cutting into old wood.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or partial shade; 4–6 hours of morning sun with protection from harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching; provide shade during peak summer heat; adjust light exposure based on indoor vs. outdoor placement.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is ideal; avoid intense afternoon sun; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, fertile loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot; amend heavy soils with organic matter; test pH if issues arise.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler conditions but avoid frost.
Keep away from heat sources in winter; maintain consistent temperatures; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced formula for even nutrition.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least two nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Early spring or early fall when the plant is actively growing but not under stress.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting; use a mild rooting hormone powder.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may take an additional 2–4 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a cover; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or bud; shape the plant evenly; remove spent flowers to encourage new growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged stems; also prune after flowering to promote reblooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or diseased stems first; shape evenly; clean up debris afterward.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins; avoid repotting during flowering or dormancy.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one; ensure drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation and fresh soil.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots gently; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency based on season and weather.
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 excess drains away.
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 for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; avoid compacting the soil.
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 can slow growth and damage foliage; frost can cause irreversible harm to stems and leaves.
Solution: Protect from frost with a frost cloth or move to a sheltered location; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced vigor; may cause flowers to fade quickly.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a pebble tray; ensure adequate watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase before fertilizing; use diluted solution; avoid over-fertilizing; stop in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicStachys alpina is not considered toxic to cats. The plant is safe for feline contact and ingestion without adverse effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicStachys alpina is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant does not pose a significant risk to canine health when ingested or touched.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicStachys alpina is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It is a plant species that is generally safe for human contact and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Stachys alpina deer resistant?
A: Yes, it is generally deer resistant.
Q: Does Stachys alpina require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun with adequate moisture.
Q: Is Stachys alpina suitable for rock gardens?
A: Yes, it is well-suited for rock gardens due to its hardy nature and attractive foliage.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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