Stachys germanica

RHS Plant Profile
downy woundwort

Other common names

common woundwort, lamb's ear

Synonyms

Stachys acutifolia

Annual Biennial

A densely woolly biennial wildflower, up to 1m high in flower, with basal rosettes of lance-shaped, serrated leaves covered with fine white hairs. Small purple-pink flowers are borne in whorls around the upright stems in the summer of the second year

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.5-1 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
1–2 years
Max Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Max Height
0.5-1 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Loam Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H4

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Lamiaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Semi evergreen
Habit
Columnar upright
Genus
Stachys can be annuals, perennials or shrubs, with paired leaves which are sometimes unpleasantly aromatic, and erect spikes or racemes of whorled, 2-lipped flowers
Name Status
Correct

How to Grow

Cultivation

Thrives in open but sheltered sites, on well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline soils in sun or part shade. Prefers warm dry summers and does not compete well in crowded planting sites

Propagation

Propagate by seed, needs light to germinate

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Gravel garden
  • Wildflower meadow
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Banks and slopes

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to slugs, snails and tortrix moth larvae as well as mice, voles and rabbits

Diseases

Generally disease-free