perennial

Lamb's Ear

Stachys lanata

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

15 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low to Medium

Humidity

Prefers low humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Turkey, Armenia, Iran

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Stachys byzantina, commonly known as lamb's ear, is a spreading, evergreen perennial primarily grown for its thick, soft, velvety, silver-gray leaves. Spikes of small, purplish-pink flowers appear in summer, attracting bees. This cultivar is distinguished by its dense, velvety foliage which provides excellent ground cover and its ability to tolerate drought and poor soils, making it highly suitable for xeriscaping.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides aromatic purple flowers and soft foliage, ideal for borders and containers.

Drought tolerant and deer resistant, requiring minimal watering once established.

Attracts beneficial insects, supporting garden biodiversity.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring
Mist cuttings lightly until roots develop, about 4 weeks
Plant in full sun with moderate watering
Fertilize lightly in spring with balanced fertilizer
Divide clumps every 2-3 years in early spring
Mulch around base to conserve moisture

Pro Tip

Ensure soil drains well to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water moderately during dry spells 🌱
Prune after flowering to maintain shape
Fertilize annually in spring

Don't

Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
Allow soil to stay soggy ❌
Neglect pruning after blooming ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Divide
Fertilize
Mulch
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver-foliaged borderFragrant herb garden

Companion Plants

Lavender Salvia Rosemary Thyme

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Lamb's Ear questions

What zones can Lamb's Ear grow in?

Lamb's Ear is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Lamb's Ear deer resistant?

Yes — Lamb's Ear is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Lamb's Ear bloom?

Lamb's Ear typically blooms in early to mid-summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Lamb's Ear need full sun?

Lamb's Ear does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Lamb's Ear drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Lamb's Ear handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.