Stachys plumosa

Description

The biological form of Stachys recta is hemicryptophyte scapose, as its overwintering buds are situated just below the soil surface and the floral axis is more or less erect with a few leaves. This plant reaches on average 20-40 centimetres (7.9-15.7 in) in height. It has thick, woody roots. The stems are strong, simple or branched, with slightly rough glandular hairs. The leaves are ovate-spatulate to oblong-lanceolate, with toothed edges and a long petiole. The length of the leaves is 3-5 centimetres (1.2-2.0 in) and the width 0.5 to 2 cm. 5-20 millimetres (0.20-0.79 in). The flowers are gathered in a dense terminal spike and are usually yellowish-white, stained by purple or brown spots. The calyx is 5-10 centimetres (2.0-3.9 in) long. The flowering period extends from July through October. The flowers are hermaphrodite and pollinated by insects (entomophily). The fruit are achenes about 2 mm long, rounded, chestnut-brown and smooth or very finely punctured. This plant is strictly related to Betonica officinalis and has similar properties and characteristics.