This mat-forming perennial has rosettes of furry, silvery-gray leaves to 4 inches long. In summer, it bears gray spikes tipped with tiny, pink-purple or violet flowers. This plant crowds out weeds. ‘Silver Carpet’ is a non-flowering cultivar. ‘Big Ears’ has 8- to 12-inch-long, grayish-white felted, mid-green leaves.
Noteworthy CharacteristicsPlant lambs' ears in a dry, sunny place where you can stroke it as you walk by—in a pot or between stepping stones. It spreads out by rooting stems. It is not invasive, but with ideal conditions it might self-seed in a dry, neglected corner.
CareProvide full sun or light shade and moist but well-drained soil. They tolerate drier soil as well, but not excessive heat or humidity.
PropagationDivide or remove rooted sections in spring as growth begins.
ProblemsProne to powdery mildew and sometimes rust and leaf spot. Slugs and caterpillars can cause problems.
Fine Gardening Recommended Products
XLUX Soil Moisture Meter
Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
RAINPOINT Sprinkler Timer with Brass Swivel
Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
Morvat Heavy Duty Brass Y-Valve
Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
- Genus : Stachys
- Plant Width : 1 to 3 feet
- Plant Height : 1 to 3 feet
- Zones : 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
- Uses : Containers, Ground Covers
- Light : Full Sun
- Moisture : Medium Moisture
- Plant Type : Perennials
- Flower Color : Pink
- Characteristics : Showy Foliage
- Bloom Time : Summer
- Plant Seasonal Interest : Summer Interest
Plant Characteristics are only available to Fine Gardening members
Sign up for a free trial and get instant access to our complete plant guide as well as our entire collection of articles and videos.