Groundcover
Lamb's Ear
Stachys byzantina
Monrovia® varieties
Varieties We Carry
Helen Von SteinStachys byzantinaByz Big EarsStachys byzantinaMonrovia
Sizes & Pricing
1 galFrom$6.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Jun 15.
LightFull Sun, Part Shade
WaterLow
Mature size12-18 inches × 12-18 inches
About Lamb's Ear
Lamb's Ear (Stachys byzantina) is a spreading perennial from the Middle East and Central Asia, grown primarily for its large, densely woolly silver-white leaves that are remarkably soft to the touch. Tall spikes of small pink-purple flowers appear in summer, and it is widely used as an edging or foliage accent plant. Starting at $6.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Spring, Summer
- Flower Color
- Purple
- Growth Rate
- Moderate
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Soil
- Sandy, Well-drained
Best planting months
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
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This monthGood windowOther months
Seasonal care
Bloom season. Good planting window.
Bloom season.
Ideal planting window.
Retains foliage through winter.
Care essentials
Light
Plant in full sun to partial shade; in NE Florida's intense summer heat, afternoon shade reduces leaf scorch and crown rot risk. At least 4–6 hours of direct sun ensures best foliage density.
Water
Lamb's Ear is drought-tolerant once established — water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry between waterings. In NE Florida's humid summers, keep soil well-drained and avoid wetting foliage to prevent crown rot and fungal disease.
Soil & Fertilizer
Grow in sandy, well-drained soil; rich or moist soils invite rot. Fertilize lightly once in spring with a slow-release balanced fertilizer. Excellent drainage is critical in Florida's humid climate.
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Common questions
Is Lamb's Ear a good plant for St. Augustine?
Lamb's Ear is a groundcover for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, with low salt tolerance, reaching 12-18 inches × 12-18 inches.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.