Betony (woundwort)
Stachys officinalis
Botanical family: Lamiaceae
Stachys officinalis (betony) and other woundworts (S. sylvatica, S. palustris), nectar-bearing Lamiaceae of meadows, woods and damp places. A long medicinal tradition, to be handled prudently and without replacing professional advice. Sources: Tela Botanica, “Betonica officinalis L.”, “Stachys sylvatica L.” and “Stachys palustris L.” (Coste's flora); Plants For A Future, “Stachys officinalis”, “Stachys sylvatica” and “Stachys palustris”.
Sun to partial shade
Cool, ordinary; some species enjoy moisture
Moist soil
Very hardy perennial
Overwinters in your zone
Role in permaculture
Perennials of the sage family (genus Stachys), with spikes of purplish flowers that are very nectar-bearing, foraged by long-tongued bumblebees and solitary bees; the hedge woundwort (S. sylvatica) carpets cool edges.
Companions
No companion planting is documented for this plant: no recommended neighbour, no neighbour to avoid.
Seasons & availability
Flowering tops gathered in summer, from June to August; dried, they are available the rest of the year.
Available: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December.
Guidance for the oceanic / temperate climate; it may vary with your region, altitude, exposure and growing method.
Sources
- Plants For A Future, « Stachys officinalis » (pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Stachys+officinalis)
- FloreAlpes, « Betonica officinalis / Epiaire officinale » (florealpes.com/fiche_betoineoffi.php)
Nutritional & medicinal properties
For educational purposes. Not a substitute for medical advice. Effects depend on the form, the dose and personal context.
Precautions & contraindications
A plant of tradition that replaces no treatment; seek a professional's advice before any prolonged use.
Family behaviour: Lamiaceae
In general, Lamiaceae are aromatics (basil, mint, thyme, rosemary, sage, lavender, lemon balm, savory). Their essential oils are reputed to bother some insects, but in a trial cited by Parker et al. (2013), sage, thyme and mint planted near cabbages did not reduce their pests. Their flowers are much visited by pollinators.
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Species & varieties
The best-known species and varieties in France.
Species
Before you forage
This plant is often gathered from the wild. Only pick what is abundant, never a protected species, and never uproot a whole plant (roots) without the landowner's permission. Rules vary by country and region, check locally.
Key takeaways
- • Prefers sun to partial shade exposure.
- • Ideal soil: cool, ordinary; some species enjoy moisture.