Lamb's Ears

Stachys byzantina is a hardy perennial grown primarily for its thick, woolly, silvery leaves rather than its flowers.

About This Plant

Very hardy, strong-growing, with dense white-wooly foliage. Excellent low, spreading bedding plant and border perennial. Pink-purple flower spikes in summer. Foliage provides striking silvery color and unique velvety texture. Best in Zones 4–7.

Notable Varieties

• 'Helen von Stein' ('Big Ears'): Attractive fragrant foliage, rarely flowers.
• 'Silver Carpet': Striking silvery-green leaves, rarely blooms.

Site Selection

Full sun, well-drained soil; tolerates poor soil.

Planting Instructions

Spring, space 1–3 feet. Loosen soil 12–15 inches, add 2–4 inches compost. Plant at container depth, water thoroughly.

Care

Avoid leaf rot from standing water in leaves—divide dense growth. Divide every 3–4 years in spring. Cut back flower stems after bloom for healthy new growth. Annual shearing renews plant, removes dead leaves, keeps neat. Spring: thin compost + 2-inch mulch.