Scarlet hedgenettle (Stachys coccinea)

Also known as: Scarlet Hedgenettle, Texas Betony, Red Mint

Scarlet hedgenettle, known scientifically as Stachys coccinea, features striking red tubular blossoms that are highly appealing to hummingbirds. While it is commonly grown as an ornamental plant with numerous cultivated varieties, it remains quite uncommon in its natural environment.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Scarlet hedgenettle

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

50 cm

Spread

1 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

1 inch (2.5 cm)

Flower Color

Red Pink

Images of Scarlet hedgenettle

Quickly Identify Scarlet hedgenettle

Stachys coccinea can be identified by its square stems, opposite leaves, and bright red tubular flowers that form in dense spike-like clusters. The leaves are generally ovate to lanceolate, with a serrated edge and a soft, hairy texture.

Scientific Classification of Scarlet hedgenettle

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Lamiales

Family

Mint

Genus

Hedgenettle

Species

Scarlet hedgenettle

Planting and Growing of Scarlet hedgenettle

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

65-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Scarlet hedgenettle?

Stachys coccinea, commonly known as Scarlet Sage, prefers consistently moist but not waterlogged soil. It benefits from a thorough watering when the top inch of soil feels dry. This typically requires about 500 ml per watering session, ensuring the soil is evenly moist but with no excess water sitting at the bottom.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Scarlet hedgenettle? ›

What should I do if my Scarlet hedgenettle is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Scarlet hedgenettle? ›

How to save an overwatered Scarlet hedgenettle? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Scarlet hedgenettle?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 4-6 hours per day

Stachys coccinea appreciates a light range of full to partial sun. This range promotes healthy blooming and vibrant coloration, resulting in a visually appealing and resilient growth cycle.

How much sunlight does Stachys coccinea need? ›

What are the ideal conditions for Stachys coccinea to flourish? ›

How can I attain these ideal conditions for Stachys coccinea? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Scarlet hedgenettle?

Ideal Temperature: 65 ~ 75℉

Stachys coccinea thrives best within temperatures ranging from 65°F to 75°F. Maintaining this range ensures optimal growth and flowering. Consistent temperatures in this range support metabolic processes and photosynthesis, allowing the plant to flourish with vibrant blooms.

What Soil is Best for Scarlet hedgenettle?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Stachys coccinea thrives in soil that ensures excellent drainage. Well-draining soils prevent waterlogged conditions, helping to avoid root rot and promote strong root development, which enhances the plant's overall health and floral display. A nutrient-rich soil provides the essential minerals for Stachys coccinea's growth and vivid blooming. Supplementing the soil with organic matter like compost can boost the nutrient content, ensuring vibrant foliage and bountiful flowers. While drainage is important, the soil should also retain some moisture to sustain the plant during dry spells. Balancing these two allows Stachys coccinea to draw upon moisture when needed, without the risk of drying out too quickly.

How to Fertilize Scarlet hedgenettle?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Stachys coccinea, a balanced approach to fertilizer ensures vibrant growth. When using liquid fertilizer, dilute it to half the recommended strength to prevent root burn. For slow-release fertilizers, apply about 1/4 cup per plant annually, making sure it integrates well with the soil.

How to Prune Scarlet hedgenettle?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Start by looking for stems that are brown or dead. Removing these allows the plant to focus more energy on healthy parts and encourages new growth. Cut these stems back to the base, ensuring a clean cut to prevent disease. Stachys coccinea can grow in an unruly manner if left unattended. Use your shears to trim back stems that stick out awkwardly, maintaining a symmetrical shape. This not only improves the plant’s appearance but also encourages compact growth. To encourage new growth and flowering, snip back the tips of the stems by a few inches. This pinch-back technique stimulates the plant to produce more stems and flowers, leading to a fuller and more vibrant display. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Scarlet hedgenettle plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early summer

Start by preparing a well-draining and nutrient-rich soil mix for either sowing seeds or planting cuttings. This step is crucial for ensuring that the young plants have adequate nutrition and do not suffer from root rot.

Scatter the seeds of Stachys coccinea evenly over the soil surface and lightly press them down. It is important to cover them with a thin layer of soil or vermiculite to maintain moisture levels ideal for germination.

Carefully cut a healthy stem section of about 4-6 inches in length from the mother plant. Remove the lower leaves to expose the nodes, which will eventually form roots when planted.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Scarlet hedgenettle plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years

You should consider repotting Stachys coccinea when the roots start circling the bottom of the pot or when growth seems stunted. These signs indicate that the plant has outgrown its current home and needs more space to flourish.

Select a pot that is 2 inches larger in diameter than the current one to allow room for growth. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot, thus helping your plant thrive in a healthier environment.

Opt for a well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand. This composition ensures that the roots have adequate aeration, which prevents the soil from retaining too much moisture, reducing the risk of root rot.