Stachys affinis

Plant Details

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General Information

Scientific name: Stachys affinis

Also known as: Chinese Artichoke, Artichoke betony

Images: Google Images

Plant Properties

Layer: Herb layer

Format: Smal

Height: 0.50 m

Width: - m

Growth Rate: -

Leaf: -

Growth conditions

USDA Hardiness: 4-8

Soil Moisture:
Moist

Soil:
Sand (light) Loam (medium) Clay (heavy)

pH:
Acid Neutral Basic

Light:
Half shade, Sun

Usage properties

Edible part:
Leaves, Root

Edibility:
(4)

Medicinal:
(1)

Features:
None

Description

Bulbs - raw or cooked. They have a pleasant mild flavor and are lightly digestible, but quite small and inconvenient in size, about 5-8 cm long and 2 cm wide. They have a nutty and artichoke-like taste and can be eaten raw, added to salads, or lightly cooked. The bulbs discolor quickly when exposed to air and it is said they lose their flavor when peeled. It is best to harvest them when needed. The yield is about 1 kg per square meter. Leaves - cooked. These are used as food during a famine, only when everything else fails.

Harvest Data

Start Harvest: 01/06

End of Harvest: 30/09

Guilds

Guild Information

Click on a plant in the diagram for more information.

Guild Details

Guild	Description
Broussonetia kazinoki Kozo	Broussonetia can provide shade and wind protection for Stachys affinis, helping it thrive in various conditions.
Broussonetia papyrifera Paper Mulberry	Like Broussonetia kazinoki, this species helps to create a microclimate that enhances the growth of Stachys affinis.
Diospyros lotus Date Plum	Diospyros lotus provides support for Stachys affinis with its nutrient-rich leaves, contributing to improved soil quality.
Diospyros virginiana American Persimmon	This companion can enhance Stachys affinis growth by attracting beneficial insects that aid pollination.
Morus alba White mulberry	Morus alba's presence helps retain moisture in the soil, beneficial for the water needs of Stachys affinis.
Malus domestica Apple	The apple tree can provide a diverse ecosystem supporting myriad insects, which can also help Stachys affinis.
Corylus avellana Hazel	Corylus avellana offers wind protection, aiding Stachys affinis in maintaining its optimal growth environment.
Thymus vulgaris Common Thyme, Garden thyme, Wild Thyme	Thyme is beneficial for its pest-repelling qualities, which can help protect Stachys affinis from damage.
Ribes nigrum Blackcurrant	Ribes nigrum can attract pollinators that are beneficial for the flowering and fruiting stages of Stachys affinis.
Rubus fruticosus Blackberry	Rubus fruticosus provides ground cover, helping to prevent weeds from competing with Stachys affinis.
Tropaeolum majus Nastirtium	The Nasturtium can deter pests from attacking Stachys affinis, thus ensuring healthier plants.
Hippophae rhamnoides Sea Buckthorn	Hippophae rhamnoides adds nutrients to the soil, promoting healthier growth for Stachys affinis.
Urtica dioica Stinging nettel, California nettel	Nettle can improve soil quality and attract beneficial insects, supporting the growth of Stachys affinis.