Stachys byzantina (syn. Stachys lanata)

Stachys byzantina or ‘Lambs’ Ears’

With the soft silver foliage that gives them their name Stachys byzantina syn. Stachys lanata or ‘Lambs’ Ears’are a great ground cover. Varieties such as ‘Big Ears’ and ‘Cotton Ball’ provide variety for landscapers.

The common name of ‘Lambs Ears’ comes from the foliage of the plant which id soft and silky, just like Lambs Ears.

Flowers are not the main feature, the texture of the foliage is what makes Stachys byzantina  such a popular plant and are available for sale online from participating nurseries.

In cold conditions the foliage of Stachys byzantina can die back, it will spring back to life as soon as the weather warms up.

Landscaping Uses.

Plant as a ground cover plant beneath taller trees, or in open areas in the garden.

Varieties

• ‘Big Ears’ – Deep pink flowers
• ‘Cotton Ball’ – Pink flowers fading to silvery white.

Growing Conditions

Stachys or ‘Lambs Ears’ are an easy to grow garden plant. Regarded as drought tolerant once established they are a ‘low care’ plant.

These plants do not like to be watered especially on the foliage, usually natural rainfall is enough. Try for a position with good air flow so that foliage dries out as quickly as possible.

Look for the dwarf form Stachys byzantina ‘Silky Fleece’ great as ground cover. Full sun and dry tolerant.

• Position – Full sun to part shade.
• Soil – Well drained humus rich.
• Foliage – Thick yet soft textured grey green in colour.
• Flowers – Purple in summer.
• Fertilise in spring with a slow release fertiliser.
• Frost free position.

Stachys byzantina or ‘Lambs Ears’ are available from the following growers

PLANTERS PATCH phone : (02) 9653 3933

Specialist perennial nursery, new releases from international breeders, plants from quality brands - Australian Perennial Growers, Aussie Winners and Proven Winners, old favourites and collectables in 100mm pots. Available by mail order. Supplying NSW, QLD, VIC, ACT & SA.
www.planterspatch.com.au

YELLOW HOUSE PERENNIALS - ph 02) 4421 8681 mob 0417 433 357
Large range of Rare, Unusual and Old Fashioned Perennials. Includes Artemisias, Achilleas, Geraniums, Geums, Salvias, Penstemon and Francoa.
www.yellowhouseheritageperennials.com.au

PERENNIALLE PLANTS - phone: 0427077798 
52 Rodd St Canowindra NSW 2804
An online nursery specialising in drought and frost tolerant perennials and fragrant, edible and herbs.
www.perennialle.com.au

LAMBLEY NURSERY & GARDENS
395 Lesters Rd Ascot VIC 3364 - phone (03) 53434303
Specialising in beautiful perennials & bulbs including new releases from Europe & USA. Many hardy, rare & difficult to find ‘drought hardy’ plants, quality vegetable & flower seeds.
www.lambley.com.au

THE JINDIVICK COUNTRY GARDENER Rare Plant Nursery - ph 03 56285316
1070 Jacksons Track, Jindivick 3818
Specialising in growing and selling Rare and Unusual Trees, shrubs Perennials Bulbs and Climbers, a unique nursery with amazing stock.
www.jindivickcountrygardener.com.au

LYNN'S RARE PLANTS
PO Box 7040 Leura NSW 2780
Rare woodland plants, Trilliums Epimediums, Arisaemas, plus much more.www.lynnsrareplants.com.au