Stachys officinalis
Family: Lamiaceae
Herbaceous perennial. Native to Europe and Russia. This
moisture-loving plant has beautiful red/purple flowering spikes.
Cultivation of Wood Betony dates back to Medieval times. It was grown
in the gardens of monastaries and apothecaries where it was utilized extensivelyas
a tonic nervine, taking some of the dark out of the dark ages. Pick
the fresh basal leaves and slice thinly, then infuse with hot water.
Delicious. Cultivation: Extra care. Plant the
seeds very early in the spring, to naturally cold-condition them.
Transplant seedlings 2 feet apart. Flowers to 3 feet tall.
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