Helene Von Stein Lambs Ear

Where to Plant

• Sunlight: Provide at least six hours of direct sunlight for the best silver color and dense, sturdy foliage, or site your plant in partial afternoon shade in the hottest summer climates. Note that too much shade is a problem because it can trap moisture on the fuzzy leaves and lead to rot or fungal leaf spot.
• Soil: Well-drained soil is absolutely non-negotiable for this perennial, as it prevents the root and crown rot that Lamb's Ear is prone to. It thrives in average to poor soil; if you have heavy clay, incorporate grit or compost generously before planting to ensure sharp drainage.

Watering Requirements

For the first season, water your new plantings regularly to keep the soil lightly moist as they establish their root systems. Once settled, this is a highly drought-tolerant plant that requires little supplemental water, so only provide roughly one inch per week during prolonged dry spells. The biggest mistake is overwatering, so always allow the soil to dry out completely between applications, and apply water at the base to keep the fuzzy leaves dry.

Pruning Tips

Lamb's Ear is grown for its spectacular foliage, so pruning is mainly a housekeeping matter to keep the mat tidy. Snip off any dead, yellowed, or tattered leaves near the crown throughout the growing season to encourage new growth and allow for better air circulation. If the plant becomes winter-worn, you can shear the entire patch back to the ground level in early spring before the fresh, velvety leaves fully emerge.

Fertilizer Needs

Skip the heavy feeding entirely, as this plant genuinely prefers lean, poor soil and does not need rich conditions to thrive. If you want to give it a boost, the best method is to apply a very light top-dressing of finished compost around the base of the plant in early spring. You must avoid any high-nitrogen fertilizer, as this will promote overly aggressive, floppy growth that is highly vulnerable to rot and disease.