Stachys densiflora 'Alba'

BETONY, CREEPING BETONY
syn. N/A
Family: Lamiaceae
Pronounced: STAK-iss den-see-FLOR-uh

 

Quick Jumps

Growing Guide
Rainy Side Notes

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GROWING GUIDE

Origin:
Garden.
Plant group:
Perennial.
Hardiness:
Sunset zones: Not Listed.
USDA zones: 4-8.
Mature size:
Height: 2-4 inches (5-10 cm).
Width: 18 inches (40 cm) .
Flowering period:
July.
Flowering attributes:
Spikes of densely packed, tiny, white, tubular flowers.
Leaf attributes:
Soft green, evergreen leaves with toothed margins.
Growth habit:
Creeping.
Light:
Full sun to partial shade.
Soil:
Any type soil as long as it is well-drained.
Feeding:
Fertilize with a complete organic fertilizer in spring.
Propagation methods:
Divide in spring just as new growth begins.
Pruning methods:
Deadhead spent flowers for a low tidy look, or leave the strange looking seed heads in place.
Pests and Diseases:
None that I have noted.

 

Rainy Side Notes

Usually when you think of Stachys, you think of the big grayish-white big foliage of the lamb’s ear, S. byzantina. However, this little ground hugging perennial is wonderful in our Northwest gardens and can be used in many different well-drained soil types in the border, in paths, or draping over and through rock walls. Even though I saw recommendations to plant this between stepping stones, I would not plant it in a main path as the flower spikes would be knocked down by foot traffic.

I don’t believe Stachys densiflora ‘Alba’ is a rare plant; however, I haven’t seen it growing in gardens I have toured. I planted seven of these little perennials and I’m still learning more about them—this is their third growing season in the garden. Planted on top of a rock wall S. densiflora will creep around the tall sedums, penstemons, and asters as I evaluate it for Northwest growing. I haven’t found any information about growing it in our region. So far, the creeper hasn’t spread much, although it should have an 18 inch spread eventually, according to some sources.

If you live in deer country, this is a deer resistant perennial. Results may vary depending on your local herd.

Photographed in author's garden.