Wood Betony

Wood Betony (Stachys Officinalis) had a powerful reputation during the middle ages and later.

It was reputed to scare off any evil spirits that happened to be around.

Today's herb gardeners appreciate betony as an interesting ornamental with a more practical medicinal history.

Some cultivars and relatives of Wood betony include, Lamb's-ears, Primrose Heron, and silver carpet.

Betony has several uses, but my wifes swears by its tea to relieve her headaches. I personally like growing betony for its beautiful flowers.

Description

Betony is a perennial that grows 2 to 3 feet tall in zones 4 to 8.

Flowers: It has tiered spikes of pinkish purple flowers that bloom in midsummer.

Leaves: Bright green opposite leaves have notched edges.

Flavor and fragrance: Betony tastes and smells very similar to black tea.

How To Grow

When to plant: Sow the seeds indoors six to eight weeks before your last spring frost, then transplant to your garden after your area's last spring frost. You can also sow directly into the garden a week or two the last spring frost.

Where to plant: Betony prefers partial shade but will tolerate full sun.

Soil and fertility: Plant in well-drained, moderately moist soil of average fertility. Mulch with about a 1/2 inch of compost every other year.

Plant spacing: Space the plants 12 to 18 inches apart; the plants will eventually spread about 1 foot.

Pests: Largely pest-free

Diseases: Susceptible to root rot in soggy soils

Harvesting

When to harvest: Harvest the leaves before the plant blooms in early July. For best quality, gather in the morning when the dew is dry.

How to harvest: Cut the stems several inches above the soil line and strip the leaves off.

Drying: Hang upside down to air dry.

Uses

Cooking: Betony tastes like black tea but containes no caffeine.

Medicinal: Betony is said to relieve headaches (my wife swears by it) brought on by tension and also contains tannins that can ease throat irritations and diarrhea. However excessive internal use can irritate the stomach.

Tips

Wood betony will make an attractive addition to any perennial border.