Although in the same genus as Lambs ears and it's cultivars, this plants lacks the fuzzy foliage but has outstanding flowers.
Pronunciation
(STAY-kis)
Plant Type
All Plants, Perennials Hardy
Hardiness Zone
4-8
Sunlight
full sun to some shade
Moisture
average
Soil & Site
average
Flowers
lavender purple flowers on leafless scapes rise above the foliage, end of June through July in my garden (zone #5)
Leaves
leaves green, long and narrow, textured
Dimensions
18 plus inches with a spread of 18", forms small mounding clumps
Maintenance
deer proof
Propagation
division
Native Site
Native to Iran
Cultivar Origin
The cultivar name 'Hummelo' is in honor of a district in The Netherlands.
Misc Facts
Stachys is Greek (ear of corn) with reference to the flower formation. Betony alludes to an ancient Iberian tribe.
Author's Notes
I have seen this plant used many times in gardens. Its tall leafless scapes that hold the flowers above the foliage and the green mounds of clean foliage are outstanding features. Planted 6 in my garden in the fall of 2009. Looking forward to the summer of 2010. Summer of 2016 they are still doing fine.