Lamb’s Ear ‘Helene Von Stein’

Stachys byzantina ‘Helene Von Stein’

Characteristics

Culture

Easily grown in average, dry to medium, well-drained soils in full sun, Lamb’s Ear ‘Helene Von Stein’ appreciates some light afternoon shade in hot summer climates. Too much shade, however, may impede leaf drying and promote the onset of disease. The woolly leaves of this plant tend to trap moisture, and in humid climates, plant leaves are susceptible to attack from rot and leaf spot where too much moisture is present. Plants are generally drought tolerant. Avoid overwatering.

If mid-summer foliage decline occurs, pick off damaged leaves as needed. Lamb’s Ear ‘Helene Von Stein’ spreads by creeping stems that root as they go along the ground and can be mildly aggressive in rich soils. Site starter plants 12-18” apart for use as a ground cover. Flowers are not particularly showy, and many gardeners prefer to remove the flowering stems as they appear to enhance the ground cover effect.

Noteworthy Characteristics

Stachys byzantina, known as Lamb’s Ears, is grown primarily for its thick, soft, velvety, silver-gray leaves which typically form a rapidly spreading mat. Leaves are evergreen in warm climates, but will depreciate considerably in harsh winters. Erect, small-leaved flowering stems with terminal spikes of insignificant, tiny, purplish-pink flowers may appear in summer. Many gardeners remove the flowering stems to enhance the ground cover effect. Dense rosettes of woolly, tongue-shaped, gray-green leaves spread by runners. Leaf shape and texture resemble a lamb’s ear, hence the common name.

Several cultivars of Lamb’s Ear, the best of which is ‘Helene Von Stein’, have the advantages over the species of having better summer foliage and rarely producing flowering stems.

Problems

 Tends to rot and develop leaf diseases in humid summer climates. Well-drained soils are essential in order to combat potential rot. Even with well-drained soils, some summer die-out may occur where high humidity and/or moisture on foliage is present. Can spread aggressively.

Garden Uses

 Foliage provides interesting texture and color to the border or rock garden. Effective edger or small area ground cover.