Wood Betony Information
Wood betony (Stachys officinalis) is native to Europe and is hardy to USDA zone 4. It can tolerate anything from full sun to partial shade, making it a popular choice for shady areas where few flowering things will thrive. Depending upon variety, it can reach heights of anywhere between 9 inches (23 cm.) and 3 feet (91 cm.). The plants produce a rosette of slightly scalloped leaves that then reach upward in a long stalk that blooms in clumps along the stalk, making for a distinctive look. The flowers come in shades of purple to white. Start from seed in autumn or spring, or propagate from cuttings or divided clumps in spring. Once planted, growing betony plants will self-seed and spread slowly in the same area. Allow the plants to fill in an area until they become overcrowded, then divide them. It may take them three years to reach critical mass in sunny spots and as long as five years in the shade.
Betony Herb Uses
Wood betony herbs have a magical/medicinal history dating back to Ancient Egypt and have been used to treat everything from shattered skulls to silliness. Today, there is no scientific evidence that wood betony herbs have medicinal properties, but plenty of herbalists still recommend it to treat headaches and anxiety. Even if you’re not looking for treatment, betony can be brewed into a good substitute for black tea and makes for a nice base in herbal tea mixes. It can be dried by hanging the entire plant upside down in a cool, dark, dry place.
