Photo: Jean-Pol GRANDMONT, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
.JPG){kind=link}
Pruning guide · Perennial
Lamb's ear: when and how to prune
Stachys byzantina
Lamb's ear is best pruned in March and August.
| Pruning months | March and August |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–August |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Lamb's ear: when to prune it?
Lamb’s ear is not really pruned. In March, remove dead and rotting leaves; after flowering, in August, cut off the flower stems.
Lamb's ear: how to prune it?
- In March, cut or pull off all dead, brown and rotting leaves.
- In August, cut faded stems back to the leaves.
- After a wet spell, remove rotting parts straight away to keep the rest healthy.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: March and August. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Lamb's ear flowers in June–August, when it attracts bees.
- If pruning falls during flowering, wait until it is over or leave part of the plant to flower, so bees and butterflies still benefit.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Lamb's ear · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.