Lamb’s Ear (Stachys byzantina) is a beloved perennial known for its velvety, silver-gray leaves that create a soft, textured groundcover. Its fuzzy foliage forms low, spreading mounds that brighten sunny borders, rock gardens, and pathway edges. In late spring to summer, Lamb’s Ear sends up spikes of tiny lavender-pink flowers that attract bees and beneficial pollinators. Drought tolerant, easy to grow, and visually unique, it adds contrast and year-round interest in ornamental landscapes.
Features
- Soft, fuzzy silver-gray foliage with unique texture.
- Produces lavender-pink summer flowers that attract bees.
- Drought-tolerant perennial that thrives in dry soils.
- Excellent groundcover for pathways, borders, and rock gardens.
- Non-GMO Stachys byzantina seed variety.
- Low-maintenance, resilient plant for sunny landscapes.
Specifications
- Common Name: Lamb’s Ear
- Scientific Name: Stachys byzantina
- Plant Type: Perennial groundcover herb
- USDA Zones: 4–9
- Foliage: Soft, velvety silver-gray leaves
- Bloom Color: Lavender-pink flower spikes
- Height: 6–18 inches
- Spread: 18–36 inches
- Growth Habit: Low, spreading, mat-forming
- Heirloom: Yes
- GMO Status: Non-GMO
- Organic: Not certified organic
- Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Preference: Well-drained, sandy or average soil
- Water Needs: Low once established
- Drought Tolerance: High
- Pollinator Friendly: Yes
- Deer & Rabbit Resistance: High (fuzzy foliage)
- Maintenance Level: Low
- Plant Spacing: 12–18 inches
- Seed Viability: 2–4 years stored cool & dry
Planting Guide
- Sow indoors 6–8 weeks before frost or direct sow outdoors in spring.
- Press seeds gently into soil; cover lightly (1/8 inch).
- Keep soil lightly moist until germination (10–20 days).
- Provide full sun and good airflow for young seedlings.
- Transplant into well-drained soil after frost danger passes.
- Water moderately during establishment; reduce watering once mature.
- Avoid overly rich soil, which reduces leaf fuzziness and silver color.
- Trim back flower stalks if more compact foliage is desired.
- Divide clumps every few years to maintain dense coverage.
