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| Lamb's ears (Stachys byzantina) |
Many gardeners are acquainted with the wooly leaf
perennial called lamb's ears (Stachys byzantina). It is native to Europe and Asia (USDA hardiness zones 4-8). Summer heat and humidity takes its toll on lamb's ears, particularly in Southern climes.
Lamb’s
ear (S. byzantina) forms a dense mat
of woolly silver-gray leaves. Plants grow 12 -15 inches high by 18 inches wide.
Spikes of purplish pink flowers appear on tall stems in early summer that
detract from the foliage and, in my opinion, should be pruned off. Bloom stalks
tend to re-develop and necessitate more pruning.
The cultivar
‘Countess Helene von Stein’, aka ‘Big Ears’ is the preferred choice as it exhibits
showier velvety foliage, is more heat and humidity tolerant, and best of all,
it rarely flowers (sorry bees!). Over time, it forms wider mounds and seedlings (from
blooming species) will spread to other areas. The species develops a messy appearance and asks for pruning after flowers have quit.
Both types
of Stachys are easily grown in moist
well-drained soils and full to part day sun (6 hours or more recommended).
Soils should be kept evenly moist, but established plants exhibit moderate drought
tolerance. Plants spread by underground stolons. Set multiple plants 12-18 inches
apart as a ground cover.
No
serious disease or insect pests trouble lamb's ears. Pollinators can't
resist the striking midsummer colorful floral spikes. Deer and rabbits generally
stay away. Snails and slugs may be troublesome in wet summers.
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