betony

Betony is a term that can refer to several different plants. One type is field betony (Stachys arvensis), a bristly annual European hedge nettle with purplish flowers. Another is wood betony (Pedicularis canadensis), found in eastern North America, which has yellow or reddish flowers.12

Historically, "betony" also referred to woundworts formerly in the genus Betonica, particularly purple betony (Betonica officinalis). This is a perennial plant from the Old World, sometimes grown for its attractive reddish-purple flower spikes. The name "betony" originates from the Latin vettonica, named after an ancient Iberian people called the Vettones.342