Stachys byzantina
Stachys byzantina (Lambs Ears) gets its common name due to its soft, velvety leaves that resemble lambs ears. Foliage is silvery-green in colour and is accompanied by pink-purple flower spikes in late spring to early summer.
Cultural
Stachys can tolerate partial shade but growth is more dense in full sun positions. They are frost tolerant but will suffer in humid conditions.
Soil:
Tolerates any well-drained soil, suitable for poor soils.
Aspect:
Full sun to part shade.
Maintenance:
Remove dead or damaged growth as required. Prune back spent flowers to maintain tidy appearance. Prefers low-nutrient soils, an application of compost in spring is sufficient for fertilising. Plants can be divided in spring. Susceptible to slugs and snails, apply baits as required.
Water Requirements:
Drought tolerant once established but will benefit from supplementary watering. Will not tolerate waterlogged soil.
Seasonal Interest:
Summer flowering, year round foliage interest.
Landscape Uses
Great as a groundcover or border plant, its silver foliage provides a perfect contrast to plants with brightly coloured blooms or deep green foliage. It is ideal for cottage or low-water gardens. Plant it with other cottage favourites such as Achillea millefolium ‘Terracotta‘ and Salvia nemorosa ‘Caradonna‘.
Dimensions
Height to 45cm
Width to 60cm
Will continue to spread using its runners where space permits.
Width to 60cm
Will continue to spread using its runners where space permits.