Exploring Woolly Hedgenettle, Lamb’s Ear
Scientifically recognized as Stachys byzantina and classified under Family Lamiaceae; Order Lamiales, stands out as a distinctive Herbaceous perennial known for its unique characteristics. While it may also be found under other Synonyms, Stachys lanata.withSilver Carpet, Helen von Stein form. You can use our free plant care app PlantPlants to identify Woolly Hedgenettle, Lamb’s Ear.
Temperature
Can survive down to 0 F (-18 C), not ideal for prolonged extreme heat
Watering
Moderate; needs watering when soil is dry to touch
Fertilizing
Balanced fertilizer or compost
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Appearance and Growth Of Woolly Hedgenettle, Lamb’s Ear
At maturity, this species reaches approximately 12 to 18 inches (30 to 46 cm) tall and 24 to 36 inches (61 to 91 cm) wide, presenting Soft, velvety, gray-green leaves; oval to lanceolate shape along with Spike-like clusters of small, tubular flowers ranging from lavender to purple, followed by Small, nutlet-type seeds, dry and hard. These features are supported by a reliable Fibrous root system, ensuring stability and sustained growth.
Woolly Hedgenettle, Lamb’s Ear Origin and Habitat
Native to Native to the Mediterranean region, Woolly Hedgenettle, Lamb’s Ear thrives in Dry, rocky slopes, and grasslands at elevations around Grows from sea level to about 1,500 meters. Best suited for USDA Hardiness Zone 4 to 8. Whether grown indoor, in a curated garden or a more natural setting, its ecological requirements help maintain its vigor over time.
How to take Care of Woolly Hedgenettle, Lamb’s Ear
Light, Soil and Watering Woolly Hedgenettle, Lamb’s Ear.
You can use our free plant identify app PlantPlants to chose the best spot for Woolly Hedgenettle, Lamb’s Ear, This plant prefers Full sun to partial shade and flourishes in Well-drained, sandy to loamy soils with a soil pH of about 6.0 to 7.5.
Woolly Hedgenettle, Lamb’s Ear needs watering,Moderate; needs watering when soil is dry to touch, guided by PlantPlants app, You can get plants daily watering schedule. to maintain Drought-tolerant once established, ensure steady hydration. Applying water through Soak soil thoroughly, prevent waterlogging supports even distribution and helps prevent overwatering or dryness.
Temperature and Humidity
Woolly Hedgenettle, Lamb’s Ear performs best within 20 F to 100 F (-6 C to 38 C). Its ideal growth occurs at around 60 F to 75 F (15 C to 24 C), though it tolerates ranges from Can survive down to 0 F (-18 C), not ideal for prolonged extreme heat. Additionally, maintaining Low to moderate humidity encourages healthy foliage and overall plant vigor.
Fertilization & Soil Health
Feeding with Balanced fertilizer or compost at the recommended Seasonal Application Frequency on PlantPlants App keeps nutrients balanced. Incorporating Organic matter, such as compost enhances soil structure and fertility, while staying alert to Yellowing leaves, stunted growth helps you adjust care as needed to maintain optimal plant health.
Routine and Maintenance
Regular attention ensures this plant’s beauty and longevity. Late spring to early summer after flowering for Remove spent flowers and dead foliage; light trimming tidies its appearance, while Every 2 to 3 years as needed may be necessary as it grows, requiring a Increase pot size by 2 inches with repotting increase and a fresh Standard potting mix with added perlite for drainage. for Staking or Support. Not generally needed.
Seasonal Changes and Propagation of Woolly Hedgenettle, Lamb’s Ear
During Typically goes dormant in winter, growth may slow and some Leaves may die back but do not fall; can change to a more muted color in fall can occur. For those looking to propagate, consider Division, seeds, and cuttings and provide Surface-sow seeds in well-draining soil; needs light to germinate when starting from seed. If using cuttings, follow Take 4 to 6-inch cuttings in late spring, place in moist soil, keep humid until roots form to ensure successful rooting and healthy new plants.
Pests, Diseases and Prevention
our free plant identify and care app PlantPlants can help you diagnosisWoolly Hedgenettle, Lamb’s Ear problems.Though generally robust, keep watch for Aphids, spider mites, slugs and remain vigilant against Powdery mildew, root rot. Implementing Good air circulation, avoid overcrowding, proper watering and applying Neem oil for pests, proper spacing to prevent disease when issues arise will help sustain the plant thriving.
Companions and Uses of Woolly Hedgenettle, Lamb’s Ear
This plant pairs nicely with Lavender, daylilies, and other drought-tolerant plants and shows Minimal; generally compatible with most plants, making it a flexible choice for various Ground cover, bordering pathways, and in rock gardens.
Edible and Cultural Aspects
the Edible Parts: Leaves and flowers (though primarily ornamental). Toxicty of Woolly Hedgenettle, Lamb’s Ear, Non-toxic. learning about its Leaves can be harvested all season; flowers in summer, Leaves can be used as a garnish or in salads, and Low in calories; contains some vitamins and minerals can be intriguing for culinary explorers. Some traditions highlight its Traditionally used for skin wounds and irritations or note its Valued for its soft texture and ornamental appeal in gardens.
Conservation and Status
With an Not evaluated, proper Generally not needed; widely cultivated and naturalized
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can Woolly Hedgenettle tolerate drought?
Yes, it is drought-tolerant once established.
2. How do I propagate Woolly Hedgenettle?
You can propagate it by division, seeds, or cuttings.
3. Is it safe to eat Woolly Hedgenettle?
Yes, it is non-toxic, and leaves can be used in salads.
4. What pests are common with Woolly Hedgenettle?
Common pests include aphids and slugs.
5. How often should I water Woolly Hedgenettle?
Water every 7 days in summer and reduce in winter.
6. When should I prune Woolly Hedgenettle?
Prune in late spring to early summer after flowering.
7. What light conditions does it prefer?
It grows best in full sun to partial shade.
8. What soil type is ideal for this plant?
Well-drained sandy to loamy soils are ideal.
9. Is Woolly Hedgenettle a good ground cover?
Yes, it’s well-suited as a ground cover due to its spreading nature.
10. What is the ideal temperature range for growth?
Ideally between 60 F to 75 F (15 C to 24 C).