California Hedgenettle
Stachys bullata
Family: Lamiaceae or Labiatae
What it is like
Stachys bullata is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.9 m (3ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 0.9
Where it is found
Sandy, gravelly or peaty shores and bogs.
South-western N. America - California.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 1
The leaves are disinfectant and stomachic. An infusion of the leaves has been used in the treatment of stomach aches. An infusion of the leaves and stems is applied as a wash to wounds and infected sores or used as a poultice. A poultice of the heated leaves has been used in the treatment of earaches and has also been applied to boils to bring them to a head. A decoction of the roots has been used as a gargle to treat sore throats.
Disinfectant: Used for cleaning wounds.
Poultice: A moist, usually warm or hot, mass of plant material applied to the skin in the treatment of burns etc.
Skin: Plants used in miscellaneous treatments for the skin.
Stomachic: Aids and improves the action of the stomach.
Vulnerary: Promotes the healing of wounds.
Other
Rating:
Disinfectant: Plants used for disinfecting.
Attracts Wildlife: Plants noted for attracting wildlife
How it is grown
Succeeds in any deep well-drained moderately fertile soil in full sun or light shade. A good bee plant.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in a cold frame. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Division in spring.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 4-8
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist