Stachys byzantina aka Lamb's Ear
Taxonomy
Stachys byzantina, also known as lamb's-ear or woolly hedgenettle, is a flowering plant in the mint family that is native to Armenia, Iran, and Turkey. The plant is cultivated worldwide for its ornamental value, with its unique silvery foliage and clusters of lilac flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. While it is a popular houseplant, it can also be found in outdoor gardens, where it may sometimes be considered invasive. Lamb's-ear has thick, smooth leaves covered in silky silver-grey hairs, and it attracts wildlife such as hummingbirds and bees. The plant is typically evergreen but may die back during cold winters and regenerate from the crowns. To grow lamb's-ear, it needs regular watering and should be placed in direct light less than 1 foot away from a window.
Common names
Lamb's Ear, Lamb's Ears, Lamb's LugsHow to care for Lamb's Ear
Difficulty
Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Lamb's Ear due to its easy-going nature.
Water
Lamb's Ear should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Lamb's Ear loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
Lamb's Ear thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Lamb's Lugs.
Toxicity
The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.
Fertilizer
Repotting the Lamb's Ear is necessary either when it has doubled in size or once every year, whichever happens first. With fresh potting soil replenished annually, the plant will receive all the necessary nutrients, rendering the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that the source of a plant's energy is the sun, not fertilizer.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Stachys Genus
Stachys atherocalyx Stachys Atherocalyx
Stachys coccinea Scarlet Hedge Nettle
Stachys bullata California Hedgenettle
Stachys officinalis Betony
Stachys rigida Rough Hedgenettle
Stachys chamissonis Coastal Hedge Nettle
Stachys ocymastrum Hairy Woundwort
Stachys floridana Florida Betony
