Lamb's Ear

Stachys Helene von Stein Lamb’s Ear Seeds

Stachys Helene von Stein, commonly known as the Lamb’s Ear, is a captivating perennial plant that offers a stunning combination of silvery, woolly foliage and spikes of beautiful purple flowers. Renowned for its soft, velvety leaves and robust growth, this variety of Lamb’s Ear adds texture, color, and visual interest to any garden. Growing Stachys Helene von Stein from seed allows gardeners to cultivate this charming, low-maintenance plant, known for its unique appearance and drought tolerance.

Key Features of Stachys Helene von Stein Lamb’s Ear Seeds

Velvety, Silver-Gray Foliage
The most distinctive feature of Stachys Helene von Stein is its large, silvery-gray leaves that are covered in fine, soft hairs, giving them a velvety texture. The leaves form a low-growing, dense mat that can be used as ground cover, adding a beautiful contrast to other plants in your garden.

Showy Purple Flower Spikes
In late spring to early summer, the Lamb’s Ear produces tall spikes of purple flowers that rise above the foliage. These flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, while also adding a burst of color to the otherwise silver foliage. The blooms are not only beautiful but also attract wildlife, making them a valuable addition to a pollinator-friendly garden.

Compact Growth Habit
Stachys Helene von Stein grows in a compact, mounding habit, reaching a height of about 12-18 inches (30-45 cm). Its low-growing nature makes it an excellent choice for borders, edges, or as a ground cover, where it will spread slowly over time to create a soft, silvery carpet.

Drought Tolerant
This variety of Lamb’s Ear is highly drought-tolerant once established, making it an ideal choice for xeriscaping or low-maintenance gardens. It thrives in dry, well-draining soils and can withstand periods of little water, making it a resilient plant for various climates.

Benefits of Stachys Helene von Stein Lamb’s Ear Seeds

Attractive to Pollinators
Stachys Helene von Stein is an excellent plant for attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Its spikes of purple flowers are a beacon for these beneficial insects, helping to promote biodiversity and support healthy garden ecosystems.

Low Maintenance
Lamb’s Ear is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care once established. It is tolerant of poor soil conditions and dry spells, making it a perfect plant for gardeners looking for a hardy, easy-to-grow option. It also does not require regular deadheading, as the plant’s beauty lies primarily in its foliage.

Versatile Landscaping Uses
With its striking silver foliage and attractive flowers, Stachys Helene von Stein can be used in a variety of landscaping applications. It works beautifully as ground cover, in rock gardens, along borders, or as an edging plant. Its soft texture complements both traditional and modern garden designs.

Heat and Deer Resistant
The velvety texture of the leaves not only adds visual appeal but also helps to make the plant resistant to heat and deer. It thrives in hot, dry conditions and is less likely to be eaten by deer compared to other plants, making it a practical choice for areas with wildlife.

How to Plant and Care for Stachys Helene von Stein Lamb’s Ear Seeds

Starting Seeds
Begin by sowing Stachys Helene von Stein seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost. Use a well-draining seed-starting mix and lightly press the seeds into the soil, as they require light to germinate. Mist the surface lightly to keep the seeds moist but not soggy. Keep the tray in a warm, bright location, and germination should occur in 10-14 days.

Transplanting Seedlings
Once the seedlings have developed a few sets of leaves and are large enough to handle, transplant them into individual pots or directly into your garden. Be sure to choose a location with well-draining soil and full to partial sunlight. This plant prefers full sun but can tolerate light shade in hotter climates.

Watering
Water your Lamb’s Ear regularly, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. While it is drought-tolerant once established, young plants will need consistent moisture to develop strong roots. Be sure not to overwater, as Lamb’s Ear does not like wet feet.

Lighting
Stachys Helene von Stein thrives in full sun to partial shade. For the best results, plant it in an area that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. In hot climates, partial shade may be beneficial to prevent the foliage from becoming scorched by intense afternoon sun.

Soil
This plant prefers well-draining soil, and while it can tolerate poor soil conditions, it will thrive in slightly alkaline soil. If you’re planting in a container, use a well-draining potting mix designed for dry-tolerant plants or succulents.

Fertilizing
Fertilize Stachys Helene von Stein with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring to encourage growth. However, it doesn’t require frequent fertilization, as it is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in average garden soils.

Pruning
While Lamb’s Ear does not require regular pruning, you can trim back any spent flower spikes after blooming to keep the plant looking tidy. Remove any dead or damaged foliage to maintain the plant's health and appearance.

Harvesting and Propagating Stachys Helene von Stein Lamb’s Ear

Propagation by Division
Stachys Helene von Stein can be propagated through division. In early spring or fall, dig up the mature plant and carefully separate the clumps. Replant each division into new spots, ensuring each has plenty of roots to establish.

Seed Saving
To save seeds, allow the flower spikes to mature and dry on the plant. Once dry, collect the seeds and store them in a cool, dry place until you’re ready to plant them for the next growing season.

Perfect For:

• Ground Cover: Perfect for creating a silvery carpet in garden beds, rock gardens, or dry areas.
• Borders and Edging: Ideal for planting along pathways, borders, or around other plants as a contrasting texture.
• Pollinator Gardens: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making it a great addition to a pollinator-friendly garden.
• Low-Maintenance Landscaping: A drought-tolerant, hardy plant that requires minimal care once established.

Why Choose Stachys Helene von Stein Lamb’s Ear Seeds?

Stachys Helene von Stein Lamb’s Ear Seeds allow you to grow this unique and beautiful perennial from scratch, offering a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant plant that enhances any garden. With its soft, velvety foliage, stunning purple flowers, and ability to thrive in poor soil, it’s a perfect choice for gardeners looking for an attractive, easy-care plant that will attract pollinators and stand out in any landscape. Whether used as ground cover, in borders, or as an accent plant, this variety of Lamb’s Ear will continue to provide beauty and texture to your garden year after year.