Photo: Photo (c)2006 Derek Ramsey (Ram-Man) · CC BY-SA 2.5 · Wikimedia Commons
Lamb's Ear
Lamb's ear (Stachys byzantina) is grown for its soft, silvery, velvet-textured leaves that beg to be touched. The pale, woolly foliage adds a tactile, romantic softness and a cool silver tone that flatters pastel palettes. Florists use single leaves to cuff bouquets, wrap boutonnieres or add whisper-soft texture to garden-style designs. It is delicate and short-lived out of water, so it is best used fresh and handled with care.
| Family | Lamiaceae |
|---|---|
| Origin | Turkey, the Caucasus and Iran |
| Peak season | June, July, August |
| Availability | May, June, July, August, September |
| Stem length | 15–35 cm |
| Vase life | 4–7 days |
| Colors | green, white |
| Price tier | mid |
Harvest and use lamb's ear as fresh as possible, cutting stems and giving a gentle cool drink. The woolly leaves mark and bruise easily and dislike getting wet, so avoid misting the foliage directly. Keep cool and out of humidity, which can cause the leaves to rot. It has a short vase life, so incorporate it late in the design process.
- •Use as fresh as possible
- •Handle gently to avoid bruising
- •Keep foliage dry — do not mist
- •Give a gentle cool drink
- •Store cool and dry
- •Add late in the design
Bouquet Builder — by Lacy BirdDesign the bouquet. See it as a photo.
Frequently asked questions
When is Lamb's Ear in season?
Lamb's Ear peaks in June, July, August, and florists can usually source it May, June, July, August, September. Availability shifts by region and greenhouse supply.
How long does Lamb's Ear last in a vase?
Expect 4–7 days with proper conditioning — a clean vase, fresh water every couple of days, flower food, and a cool spot away from ripening fruit and direct heat.
What can I use instead of Lamb's Ear?
Good substitutes for Lamb's Ear include Silver dollar eucalyptus, Ozothamnus (rice flower), Leucadendron. Match on look, colour and season — our substitute finder ranks the closest alternatives.
What does Lamb's Ear symbolise?
Lamb's Ear is associated with comfort, softness, tenderness, healing.
How do you care for cut Lamb's Ear?
Use as fresh as possible
