Fall Care for Lamb's Ear (Stachys byzantina): Tidy, Don't Shear

Lamb's ear is evergreen to semi-evergreen in most zones. Fall care is simple:

• Remove only dead, yellowed, or mushy leaves — pull gently from base.
• Leave healthy silvery foliage intact; it protects crown and photosynthesizes all winter.
• Ensure sharp drainage — wet crowns rot in winter. Amend heavy soil with grit/compost.
• Clear debris from around plants to discourage slugs and fungal spores.
• No mulch on crowns; gravel mulch around them is fine.

In spring, rake out any winter-damaged leaves. Divide crowded clumps every 3–4 years. Lamb's ear asks little — just dry feet and sunlight.