Collection of three Stachys officinalis - Stachys officinalis, Album and Pink Cotton Candy.

This collection of Stachys officinalis, also known as betony or woundwort, brings diversity and charm to any garden. It includes the wild species Stachys officinalis, its white form S. officinalis 'Alba', and the variety 'Pink Cotton Candy' distinguished by the colour of their flowers, ranging from mauve to white and pink. These perennials bloom from summer to autumn, in ordinary soil in a location ranging from full sun to partial shade. Their greyish green foliage composed of large rough basal leaves is deciduous. Their crown can withstand temperatures as low as -15°C. They multiply spontaneously and naturalise through their numerous seeds.

The collection consists of:

1 x Stachys officinalis: the typical species recognisable by its purplish-pink to mauve flowers. It can reach a height of 50 cm when in bloom.

1 x Stachys officinalis 'Alba': with its white flowers, this variety is perfect for creating contrast in highly colourful flower beds and borders. It can reach a height of up to 40 cm.

1 x Stachys officinalis 'Pink Cotton Candy': with its pink flowers, this variety adds a touch of softness. It can reach a height of 30 to 50 cm.

Plant Stachys officinalis in spring or autumn, in full sun or partial shade, in ordinary garden soil. They are not very demanding perennials. These plants can be planted in flower beds, rockeries, or used as ground cover. As the 'Alba' variety is the shortest, it would be better to place it in front of the others. Plan for approximately 9 plants per square metre, with a distance of 30 cm between each one.

These Stachys pair perfectly with 'Mainacht' sage with its very dark purple flower spikes. To add a touch of delicacy to your flower bed, plant 'Hidcote Amethyst' bellflowers with mauve flowers. 'Walker's Low' Nepeta is a particularly easy-to-grow perennial that pairs wonderfully with the Stachys officinalis in this collection. Finally, a grass such as 'Shenandoah' switchgrass with red foliage in autumn adds texture and colour to the ensemble.

The official woundwort will naturally find its place in the herb garden, alongside thyme, savoury, hyssop, and lavender, which are all close relatives. It also pairs well with wild plants such as comfrey and borage...