hedgenettle

Stachys L.

A genus overview; characteristics vary between its species.

Hedgenettles include perennial and annual herbs, with a few small woody forms. Their leaves are usually toothed, and the plants may carry simple or branched hairs. Several species are grown as ornamentals, while Stachys affinis is cultivated for its underground tubers. Kew: Stachys, Lamiaceae Key Genus Fact Sheets and regional floras

Botanical artwork associated with hedgenettle (Stachys L.) — Rhodo botanical artwork inspired by hedgenettle; an artistic interpretation, not a botanical identification guide.

Botanical name

Stachys L. is an accepted genus in Lamiaceae. The genus-level target is retained, with Stachys germanica used as a named example of seasonal and insect relationships. Kew: Stachys, Lamiaceae Key Genus Fact Sheets and regional floras

Recognizing the plant

Flowers gather in whorl-like groups, often forming spikes toward the stem tips. Each has a tubular, five-toothed calyx and a two-lipped corolla. The lower lip has three lobes, with a larger middle lobe. Flower colours across the genus include red, purple, yellow and white. Four stamens lie near the upper lip. Flora of China 17:178: Stachys

Seasonality across the genus

Britain; Stachys germanica example

In Britain, downy woundwort, Stachys germanica, flowers from July, sometimes continuing into autumn. Kew Species Profiles: Stachys germanica

Native range

Stachys has a nearly worldwide native distribution. The Mediterranean region and Türkiye form an important centre of diversity. Species occupy varied habitats, including annual members of dry southwestern and Central Asian landscapes. Kew: Stachys, Lamiaceae Key Genus Fact Sheets and regional floras

Ecological relationships

For British S. germanica, Kew reports the highest seed set where bumblebees are numerous and active. Kew Species Profiles: Stachys germanica

Botanical sources

Reviewed 2026-10-11. Seasonal development varies with location and growing conditions.