Jelly Ears

stachys glutinosa

Also known as: ["Jelly Plant","Sticky Stachys"]

Family: Lamiaceae Genus: Stachys Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A perennial herbaceous plant native to the Mediterranean region, characterized by its sticky, glandular hairs and distinctive leaf shape.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","rare/collector’s item"]

Botanical Classification

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

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: border plantings or rock gardens
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
  • 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 organic matter; can tolerate average garden soil.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

partial shade to full sun

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid direct midday sun.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water deeply but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust based on season and humidity.

Soil

well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter

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

Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter for fertility.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler temperatures in winter promote dormancy.

Avoid sudden temperature shifts; maintain consistent warmth in growing season; protect from drafts.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Fertilize less in winter; apply to moist soil; flush soil occasionally to prevent buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Apply rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist.

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

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water.

Hormone

Rooting hormone can be used to improve success rates.

Timeline

Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth indicates establishment.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid overwatering.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or bud; shape the plant evenly.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased growth.

Tools

Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape evenly; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

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

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots; use fresh soil; water lightly.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain away.

Pro Tip: Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

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

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may cause leaf damage or dieback in prolonged cold; vulnerable to frost.

Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors in winter; provide a layer of mulch for insulation.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch or wilt; growth may slow; increased water demand.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to soil; avoid foliage contact.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Stachys glutinosa may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, leading to reduced photosynthesis and overall vigor.

Wilting in Stachys glutinosa can result from water stress, root damage, or pest infestations, impairing the plant's ability to transport water and nutrients.

Leaf spots on Stachys glutinosa may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential leaf loss.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Stachys glutinosa due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to tissue decay and plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they consume parts of Stachys glutinosa, though severe toxicity is rare.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Stachys glutinosa may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's irritant compounds.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant. If ingestion occurs, consult a veterinarian.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Stachys glutinosa contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The plant's sticky, glutinous texture may contribute to irritation in the digestive tract.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid consumption. Wash hands after handling the plant to prevent accidental ingestion.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Stachys glutinosa edible?

A: There is no reliable information on its edibility; it is best to avoid consumption.

Q: Why is it called Jelly Ears?

A: The common name refers to the plant's sticky, ear-like leaves.

Q: Does it require special care?

A: It prefers well-drained soil and partial shade, with moderate watering to prevent fungal issues.

Quick Reference
Family: Lamiaceae
Care: moderate
Light: partial shade to full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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