Lamb's-ear, or Lamb's-tongue, is a plant that almost invites you to run your fingers along its surface. The name is fitting, as the grayish-white, woolly leaves truly resemble the soft feel of a lamb’s skin. The genus name comes from the Greek word for 'a spike of grain.'
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Overview of Lamb's-Ears, Lamb's-Tongue: This plant features 4-inch-long leaves and strong stems, all covered in dense, white wool. It typically grows to about 6 inches tall. Flower spikes can reach up to 2 feet, bearing small pink to purple blooms concealed by silvery bracts. Care level: Simple.
Cultivating Lamb's-Ears, Lamb's-Tongue: Lamb's-Ears thrive in full sunlight and well-drained soil. They are also highly resistant to drought conditions.
Propagating Lamb's-Ears, Lamb's-Tongue: This plant can be propagated by division in the spring or by sowing seeds.
Uses for Lamb's-Ears, Lamb's-Tongue: This plant works wonderfully along sunny borders, in rock gardens, or as a low-maintenance ground cover. Though its flowers may be modest, the dried flower spikes make excellent additions to dried floral arrangements. It also flourishes in containers for decorative terrace accents.
Lamb's-Ears, Lamb's-Tongue related variety: Silver Carpet is a variant of this plant that does not produce flowers.
Scientific name for Lamb's-Ears, Lamb's-Tongue: Stachys byzantina
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