Fuzzy Wuzzy Lamb's Ear

Fuzzy Wuzzy Lamb's Ear (Stachys byzantina 'Fuzzy Wuzzy')

Fuzzy Wuzzy Lamb's Ear (Stachys byzantina 'Fuzzy Wuzzy') is a charming and durable perennial celebrated for its exceptionally soft, silvery foliage and low, spreading habit. A classic favorite for children's gardens, sensory plantings, and drought-tolerant landscapes, this variety adds texture, light reflection, and year-round interest to sunny garden spaces. Its fuzzy leaves invite touch and create a soothing, carpet-like groundcover that pairs beautifully with a wide range of perennials and shrubs.

Distinctive Features

'Fuzzy Wuzzy' forms dense mats of woolly, silvery-green leaves that remain attractive throughout the growing season. In early to mid-summer, short flower spikes rise above the foliage bearing small, purplish-pink blooms, though many gardeners grow this variety primarily for its foliage. Mature plants reach 6 to 8 inches tall (12 to 16 inches when in bloom) and can spread up to 18 inches wide, creating a low, soft-textured groundcover that gently weaves through beds and borders.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to light shade; best color and growth habit achieved in full sun.
• Soil: Prefers well-drained, sandy or loamy soils; highly tolerant of poor or dry soils.
• Water: Low; drought-tolerant once established and prefers dry to medium moisture levels.
• Humidity: Thrives in dry air; susceptible to leaf rot in overly humid or wet conditions.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-9, offering wide adaptability across a range of climates.

Ideal Uses

• Groundcover: Spreads neatly to create a soft, silver carpet that suppresses weeds.
• Edging: Defines pathways, borders, and beds with soft texture and muted color.
• Children�s Gardens: Fuzzy leaves make it a sensory favorite for young gardeners.
• Drought-Tolerant Gardens: Thrives in xeriscapes and dry, sunny locations.
• Rock Gardens: Perfect for filling in spaces among stones and gravel.

Low Maintenance Care

Fuzzy Wuzzy Lamb's Ear is an easy-care, low-input perennial that rewards gardeners with attractive foliage and adaptability across a wide range of conditions. Good drainage and air circulation are key to keeping plants healthy.

• Watering: Water occasionally during dry spells; allow soil to dry between watering sessions.
• Pruning: Remove faded flower spikes and any discolored or rotting leaves to maintain a tidy appearance.
• Fertilizing: Minimal fertilization required; apply a light compost top-dressing in early spring if desired.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Deer and rabbit resistant; generally pest-free with proper drainage.
• Winter Care: Evergreen in mild climates; mulch lightly in colder zones for winter protection and to maintain crown health.

Why Choose Fuzzy Wuzzy Lamb's Ear?

Fuzzy Wuzzy Lamb's Ear offers soothing texture, drought tolerance, and year-round silver color, making it a versatile and low-maintenance favorite for gardeners of all skill levels.

• Soft, Silvery Foliage: Velvety leaves provide unique texture and year-round beauty.
• Drought Tolerant: Thrives in dry soils and sunny locations once established.
• Low Growing and Spreading: Perfect for edging, groundcover, and rock gardens.
• Pollinator Friendly: Summer blooms attract bees and other beneficial insects.
• Low Maintenance: Easy-care perennial needing minimal watering and upkeep.

For a soft, silver accent that brings gentle movement and soothing texture to sunny landscapes, Fuzzy Wuzzy Lamb's Ear (Stachys byzantina 'Fuzzy Wuzzy') is a timeless and reliable choice.