Stachys sylvatica, commonly known as hedge woundwort, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to a variety of habitats including deciduous woodlands, forest edges, hedgerows, and meadows across Europe and central and western Asia. It typically grows up to 31 inches tall and is characterized by its hairy stems and opposite pairs of mid-green, stalked leaves. The plant emits a fetid smell when crushed and features slender underground runners. Hedge woundwort blooms from June to September, producing small, reddish-purple flowers that are arranged in dense whorls at the top of the stems. While not particularly showy, the flowers are attractive to bees and other pollinators.

Hedge woundwort is valued for its medicinal properties, historically used to treat wounds and staunch bleeding. It is also appreciated for its ability to thrive in shaded conditions, making it suitable for woodland gardens, naturalized areas, and as a ground cover in part shade to full shade. It prefers moist, well-drained soils but can tolerate a range of soil types. Gardeners should be aware that it can spread aggressively via its runners and self-seeding, potentially becoming invasive outside its native range. It is advisable to manage its spread to prevent it from overtaking other plantings.CC BY-SA 4.0