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Stachys byzantina and cvs.

Stachys byzantina and cvs.

STAK-iss by-zan-TEEN-ah

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.

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The Nature of Oaks: The Rich Ecology of Our Most Essential Native Trees

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  • 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

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