This stachys is used as a perennial for summer displays. Its soft, felted foliage can be used to offset various herbaceous perennials, especially those with pink, mauve or white flowers. 

Young plants are planted out at the end of spring. Stachys rugosa is easily combined with most flowering perennials that are water wise, as this plant detests over watering and also gives good contrast with Fynbos, such as Restionaceae, Proteaceae and Ericaceae.

The fast-growing plants can get untidy and after each growth period in summer, plants can be pruned back to retain shape and encourage new growth. From time to time, it will be beneficial to replant propagated plants to improve the display.

Young plants are easy to propagate from seed or cuttings.

Sow seeds late spring and early summer into a general potting soil mix. Seedlings germinate quickly and seedlings can be transplanted into well-drained potting soil, once the first pair of true leaves appear.

Take tip cuttings in spring and summer. Cuttings must be without a terminal flowering bud. Place in a rooting medium. Place under mist or enclose in a plastic bag to retain humidity, but keep an eye on cuttings rotting in too wet conditions. Keep warm, but out of direct sunlight and cuttings should root within 2–4 weeks.

The hairy and aromatic leaves the plants do not have any major pest, although mealy bug and aphids can settle down near the base of the plant stems and leaves.

Stachys rugosa prefers a well-drained soil that is moist, but never too wet. It will spread rapidly and flower in semi-shade to full sun conditions. Flowering is consistent and improved with good garden cultural practices, like composting or mulching. It is water wise, but not fully drought tolerant. General garden fertilizing can be used to maintain plant health and growth vigor.