The Perennial Plant Association has awarded the 2019 Perennial Plant of the Year Award to Stachys ‘Hummelo.’
Hardiness: USDA Zones 4–8.
Light: Full sun to part shade.
Soil: Well-drained soil, water as necessary.
Uses: This colorful and compact plant makes an excellent addition to the full sun perennial border. Terrific in combination with native grasses, purple coneflower and other hardy perennials. Wiry stems make for a great cut flower as well.
Unique qualities: Pollinators like the striking midsummer spikes of magenta flowers rising above bright green, trouble-free foliage. ‘Hummelo’ was the highest rated Stachys in the Chicago Botanic Garden Evaluation Trials for its strong flower production, vigor, habit, quality and winter hardiness.
Maintenance: Spreads slowly by creeping rhizomes. Stachys may benefit from division every few years. Strong stems and seed heads add to winter interest. This plant is considered deer-resistant.
Source: Perennial Plant Association