Wood Betony

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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