Stachys rigida - Rough Hedgenettle

Description

A lovely little hedgenettle widely distributed throughout California.  Find her in the wild growing in the dappled shade of oak woodlands, next to or near a stream, or even on coastal bluffs.  This plant prefers part shade, but can tolerate full sun on the coast or full shade in a hot clime.  Some summer water is preferred, but not totally necessary depending on the situation.  Little whorls of pale pink flowers climb up a rigid stem covered in tiny little hairs.  Foliage is bright green and also hairy- not silky like S. ajugoides or felty like S. albens.  Ours grow to about 1' high, though some forms will grow taller.  This plant is much less of an aggressive spreader than some of the other members of this genus, it will creep into any available space, especially if moisture is abundant, but won't crowd out other plants.  Plant without fear!