Do you know the perennial plant, Lamb’s Ear?
(Stachys byzantina)
You see these plants in almost every garden center: they are easy to grow, they will spread although not too rapidly or invasively, they form a wonderfully textured ground cover, and you can let the flowers develop or just cut them down before they bloom.
But, to tell you the truth, I never had them in my garden as they just seemed too weird. Yes, the soft, fuzzy leaves were sort of a turn off for me.
And then I reconsidered. And now I love them! They lasted through our cold winter last year so they are here to stay I think. I’ve divided my initial clump and everyone is happy!
Love the close-up!
Flower head that you can let develop….or not
These perennials could also be part of a lovely “Silver” Garden.
I’ve recently started a Pinerest board
Gardening: Silver and White
I am just discovering and exploring this world of silver foliage: Dusty Miller, Echeveria, Ajuga, Pulmonaria, Lamium and the list goes on. Take a look at the Pinterest board for more ideas.
Do you like, or use, these plants?
Next week, in Friday Flowers, I have something very unique to show you, so be sure to check back!
Not a big fan of these either. But I do like their fuzzy leaves – the name is so appropriate. My husband loves grey plants so I broke down and got some dusty miller for my window boxes this year. And I do adore echeveria!!
Hope you’ll link up to Whats Blooming This Week! Have a great weekend.
Heather @ new house new home recently posted…Vintage Chicken Feeder Turned Planter
Heather: Yes, I have had Dusty Miller for a few years now and it even lasts through our winters! I give it many points for that! I’ll link up for sure..
It’s neat to see these in bloom. We always have to leave before they develop. Your closeup is awesome.
It’s neat to see these in bloom. We always have to leave before they develop. Your closeup is awesome.
Hey Julie: Yes, in full bloom. How are things up by you?
I have a few Lamb’s Ear in my gardens. They add a certain texture/dimension/interest to the plantings and contrast with the colorful blooms and green leaves.
best,
teaorwine
Teaorwine: Thanks for stopping by and commenting! I am amazed at how much I like these sort of weird plants; but still trying to convince husband that they are ok! He is not a fan. Oh well, I do the planning and planting in the garden…he does the mulching. So they will remain in the garden!
Silver and grey are the best colors for making happy marriages of mixed color schemes. You often see white used this way, but it is too bold and stark to harmonize. My favorite of this species is Stachys byzantina ‘Helen Von Stein’; it has larger leaves, is more heat and humidity resistant, and rarely blooms.
Marian St.Clair recently posted…Going Out of My Way
Thanks for the suggestion, Marian. And, by the way, I liked hearing about your “pit stop” in Raleigh at the Farmers Market. You know, I’ve never been!!! Always heard such great things about the entire place, so now I will have to go. And, I ‘ve heard the pots and containers are amazing….
I love silver in the garden. Don’t forget Artemisa Powis Castle, I wonder why I have never seen a bloom on my lambs ears. they are huge and get plenty of sun. My grandchildren love them. It was the first plant name they learned and still remember.
lovely photos!
Julieta: Maybe you have what Marian refers to in another comment: ” Stachys byzantina Helen Von Stein”: rarely blooms! I have seen some around here that don’t seem to bloom also. Yes, I can imagine your grandchildren being fascinated by these!
I am always attracted to the silver plants in stores but have rarely bought them. My husband, who loves plants like I do, does not like them for some reason. I think they are elegant and tactile. Your Lamb’s Ear displays both traits beautifully. I love the look of Artemisia and think Dusty Miller’s add so much interest to a container. Love seeing your garden, Libby and congratulations on adding an irrigation system. Life just got easier!