WSU Clark County Extension

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Lamb's Ears

Scientific name: Stachys byzantina

Taxonomy
Family:Lamiaceae
Type:Groundcovers Herbaceus
Native:NO
Plant Requirements
Zone:1 to 11
Plant Characteristics
Height:1 ft
Width:3 ft
Bloom:Summer flowers
Bloom Time:June to September
Bloom Color:Purple
Additional Characteristics
Trees


Fruit

Leaves


Bark
Wildlife value

Poisonous
Description Lamb’s Ears is a well-known ground-covering perennial, popular for its soft, fluffy foliage. Under ideal conditions, lamb's ear will spread to form a silvery mat that becomes a favorite of children for its fuzzy feel. Regarded as a great plant for edging, especially along sidewalks or driveways where it can spread to soften hard, straight lines.

  Morphology:
This groundcover features 4" long velvety, soft, lamb's ear-shaped leaves, which grow in ground hugging rosettes. Leaves are light gray-green and covered with white hairs. Flower stalks emerge from June through September, grow to 18" in height, and bear purple blooms. The flowers are not very conspicuous, being hidden among the felt.

  Adaptation:
A nice spreading groundcover that does not become invasive. Considered drought tolerant.

  Pests:
None.
For assistance, contact Dr. Charles Brun (brunc@wsu.edu), (360) 397-6060 5701
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