Stachys byzantina ‘Silver Carpet’ (Lamb’s Ears)

Stachys byzantina ‘Silver Carpet’ is a cultivar of Lamb’s Ear known for its decorative foliage and low-maintenance nature, making it a favorite in gardens and landscapes.

Stachys byzantina ‘Silver Carpet’: An In-depth Look

‘Silver Carpet’ is appreciated for its silvery, velvety foliage that forms a dense, mat-like ground cover. Unlike other varieties, this foliage plant rarely flowers, focusing energy on producing luxurious foliage.

Native: Stachys byzantina is native to the Middle East, specifically to regions in Turkey, Armenia, and Iran.

Plant Type and Habit: This perennial is characterized by a low-growing, spreading habit, forming a dense carpet of leaves. It’s excellent for covering ground and adding texture to garden beds. It tends to be evergreen but can die back during cold winters and re-sprout from the crowns.

Size: The plant typically reaches about 8 inches in height (20 cm) with a spread of around 18-24 inches (45-60 cm).

Flowers: ‘Silver Carpet’ rarely produces flower spikes, which is part of its appeal as it maintains a consistent leafy appearance.

Foliage: The leaves are large, oval, and covered in a dense layer of fine, silvery-white hairs, giving them a soft, felt-like texture.

Uses: Ideal for use as ground cover, in rock gardens, along borders, or in sensory gardens. Its silvery foliage contrasts beautifully with green and flowering plants.

Hardiness: It is hardy in USDA zones 4-9, showing a good range of cold tolerance.

Wildlife: The plant is not a significant attractor of wildlife but may offer some shelter to small garden creatures.

Toxicity: Lamb’s Ear is not known to be toxic to humans or pets.

Deer and Rabbit: It is generally resistant to deer and rabbits, thanks to its fuzzy leaves.

Drought: Once established, it is quite drought-tolerant, making it a good choice for xeriscaping.

Invasiveness: This cultivar is not considered invasive and typically grows within its planting area without aggressive spreading.

Benefits: Its primary benefits are ornamental, with its unique texture and color. It’s low-maintenance, drought-tolerant, and provides excellent ground coverage.

Lamb’s Ear Growing Tips

Light: Prefers full sun to partial shade. Full sun encourages denser foliage growth and better overall health.

Soil: Thrives in moderately fertile, well-drained soil. It tolerates a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils with good drainage.

Water: Once established, Stachys byzantina is drought-tolerant. Water regularly until the plant is established, then reduce frequency. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.

Fertilizer: Requires no fertilization since it prefers soil that is not rich. If necessary, apply a light layer of compost or a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring.

Pruning: Trim back the flower stalks after blooming to maintain a tidy appearance. Remove any damaged or spent foliage to encourage new growth.

Propagation: Easily propagated by dividing the clumps in spring or fall.

Pests and Diseases: Generally pest-resistant. Watch out for slugs and snails. Overly moist conditions can lead to root rot or fungal diseases. Good air circulation and proper spacing can help prevent these issues.