Stachys recta aka Stiff Hedgenettle

Taxonomy

Stachys recta, also known as stiff hedgenettle or perennial yellow-woundwort, is a herbaceous perennial plant belonging to the Lamiaceae family. It has a hemicryptophyte scapose biological form, with overwintering buds located just below the soil surface and an erect floral axis with a few leaves. The plant typically grows to a height of 20-40 centimetres and has thick, woody roots. Its stems are strong, slightly rough, and may be simple or branched, while its ovate-spatulate to oblong-lanceolate leaves have toothed edges and a long petiole. The leaves are typically 3-5 centimetres in length and 0.5 to 2 centimetres in width. Stachys recta may be poisonous and can be difficult to get rid of due to its fibrous root system. However, it can be dug up, and resprouts can reveal the location of surviving roots. Stiff Hedgenettle is also a rare and delicate houseplant that requires regular watering and thrives in direct light less than 1 foot from a window. It prefers well-draining soil and may not require added fertilizers if repotted each time it doubles in size.

Common names

Stiff Hedgenettle, Perennial Yellow Woundwort, Yellow Woundwort

How to care for Stiff Hedgenettle

Difficulty

Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Stiff Hedgenettle due to its easy-going nature.

Water

Stiff Hedgenettle should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Stiff Hedgenettle loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Stiff Hedgenettle prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

Fertilizer

Repotting the Stiff Hedgenettle is necessary either when it has doubled in size or once every year, whichever happens first. With fresh potting soil replenished annually, the plant will receive all the necessary nutrients, rendering the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that the source of a plant's energy is the sun, not fertilizer.


More info:
Wikipedia