Stachys byzantina K.Koch

Perennial, non-aromatic herb with fibrous roots, forming large mats, the whole plant densely and persistently white-lanate. Petioles 1/2–3/4 length of lamina in basal lvs, 5–10 mm long in stem lvs. Lamina 5–12 × 1.5–3.5 cm, oblong-elliptic or elliptic, evenly crenulate; base cuneate; apex acute or subacute. Stem lvs much smaller. Bracts smaller and narrower than foliage lvs. Calyx 10–12 mm long; teeth triangular, acuminate, much < tube. Corolla 12–15 mm long, pink or rose, lanate outside; tube included in calyx; upper lip not hooded; lower lip subequal to upper. Nutlets not seen.

[From: Webb et al. (1988) Flora of New Zealand. Volume 4.]

Flowering: Dec.–Feb.