Lamb's-ear - Stachys byzantina (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images)

Lamb's-ear

Also known as: Lamb's wool, Woolly hedgenettle, Woolly betony

Lamb's-ear (Stachys byzantina) is an evergreen perennial with showy velvety leaves that look like the ear of a lamb. Pinkish purple flower spikes bloom from spring to summer. Flowers are fuzzy and make a nice focal point but can be trimmed off to promote better foliage growth. It is drought tolerant and requires well-drained soil. Thrives in full sun to partial shade and will grow from 30 to 46 cm tall when in bloom.

Scientific classification

Species

Lamb's-ear (Stachys byzantina)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Late spring, Summer, Early fall

Bloom Time

Mid spring, Late spring, Summer, Fall, Early winter

Harvest Time

60 cm to 80 cm

Plant Height

30 cm to 90 cm

Spread

Green, Silver, Gray, White

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Brown, Copper

Fruit Color

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Lamb's-ear

Distribution of Lamb's-ear

Distribution Map

Lamb's-ear is native to the temperate regions of Western Asia and Eastern Europe. It has been introduced across various continents, including North America, Europe, and Asia, and has acclimatized in some parts of South America and New Zealand. The plant is also cultivated beyond its original range, signaling its adaptability to different climates.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Disturbed areas, meadows, fields

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Lamb's-ear is valued for its fast-growing nature and for its lovely silver foliage, covered with fuzzy hairs. Its growth pattern produces an attractive mat, useful as a groundcover. This plant also tolerates drought conditions, making it an excellent choice for xeriscape and rock gardens.

Symbolism

Healing

Interesting Facts

The soft fuzzy leaves of lamb's-ear are a delight to children of all ages. In the summer, lamb's-ear produces tall spikes of pale purple flowers that are attractive to bees and hummingbirds. It is often grown in children’s gardens because it is non-toxic. Once established, this plant is drought tolerant. Its dense matts and easy care make it an excellent choice for ground cover.

Name Story

Lamb's-ear: A member of the mint family, lamb's-ear is also known as Stachys byzantina. The name, lamb's-ear, comes from the soft, furry curved leaves, which resemble a lamb’s ear. The Latin name, Stachys byzantina, come from the Greek word meaning “ear of corn.” This is because the flower stalks are spikes. The specific epithet means from “Byzantium,” which is current-day Istanbul.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Lamb's-ear, including the following common varieties :

Lamb's-ear 'Silver Carpet'

Quickly Identify Lamb's-ear

Silver-green woolly leaves form dense rosettes.

Erect 1-2 feet (30-60 cm) stems covered in gray lanate pubescence.

Purple bilabiate flowers in dense terminal spikes.

Oblong, hairless brown nutlets clustered on the plant.

Leaves with crenate margin, tapering to acute base.

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Care Guide for Lamb's-ear

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Lamb's-ear, native to arid regions of Turkey, Armenia, and Iran, thrives in dry conditions with weekly watering to maintain its plush leaves. As an outdoor perennial, it benefits from mulching for soil moisture retention and prefers well-drained soils, showing excellent drought tolerance.

Fertilize: Lamb's-ear thrives with balanced nutrition fertilizers, applying a diluted solution every 4-6 weeks in the growing season. Use a 10-10-10 NPK ratio sparingly, as lamb's-ear is not a heavy feeder. Water the soil pre-fertilization to prevent root shock, avoiding over-fertilization to prevent damage.

Pruning: Lamb's-ear features fuzzy, silver-gray leaves. Prune in early spring to enhance growth, remove dead leaves, and maintain shape. Every few years, rejuvenate by cutting back to ground level. This promotes fullness and reduces disease risk, improving the plant's ornamental value.

Propagation: Lamb's-ear propagates best via stem cuttings in spring and summer. This straightforward method yields new shoots as a sign of success. Maintain adequate moisture for optimal growth conditions.

Repotting: Repot lamb's-ear every 2-3 years in early spring using a slightly larger pot. Ensure good drainage and moderate watering to avoid root rot. Place lamb's-ear in a sunny location for recovery, and handle its velvety leaves gently during repotting.

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Images of Lamb's-ear

Distribution of Lamb's-ear

Culture

Cultivars

Quickly Identify Lamb's-ear

Care Guide for Lamb's-ear

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