Great Hedge Nettle, or Cooley’s Hedge Nettle (Stachys cooleyae, Stachys chamissonis var. cooleyae), is found in the Pacific Northwest and along the coast from British Columbia to Mexico. It can be found in a variety of damp, usually shady habitats, including moist meadows, woodland edges, and along stream banks. An aggressively rhizomatous species in ideal settings, it can form dense colonies or occur more sporadically depending on conditions. It features striking spikes of tubular magenta flowers and attractive, textured foliage with deeply lobed leaves. As beautiful as they are, the plants will give off a strong, fetid odor when disturbed. 
 
Plants bloom in mid to late summer, typically from June to August. The tall flower spikes are adorned with numerous tubular flowers perfectly adapted to hummingbirds, their primary pollinator, and provide a plentiful nectar source during the height of summer activity.  Other visitors include bumblebees and the occasional native bees and butterflies. The tall stature and abundant leaves offer substantial habitat for many types of wildlife, from birds to amphibians. The wide leaves are a favored location for tree frogs to warm themselves in the sun. The plant has traditionally been used to treat various ailments, including coughs, colds, skin irritations and digestive issues.
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Great Hedge Nettle’s affinity for moist habitats makes it ideal for rain gardens, wetlands, riparian restoration, or other areas with seasonal waterlogging. It prefers loamy, clay, or sandy soils that will retain moisture throughout summer. especially in its natural habitats along streams or in moist meadows. Seeds are not dormant but have generally low germination rates. Seedlings require constant moisture and should be protected from full sun until well established.