Stachys is a large genus of shrubs and perennial plants which are easy to grow in moist, well-drained soils in full sun or light shade. Two main Stachys varieties are grown in our gardens. The wonderful Lamb ears (Stachys byzantina) with soft silvery leaves and a low, spreading habit that is perfect for edging beds, softening walks, or massed as a ground cover. Incredibly showy, Big Betony (Stachys macrantha) and Wood Betony (Stachys officinalis) provide a very different floral display, foliage and plant habit with their green leaves and glowing purple flower spikes which stand like sentinels in the midsummer garden border, herb garden or cottage garden.