Stachys Species, Betony, Lamb's Ear

Although Dave's Garden moderator does not find enough corroborating evidence to change the hardiness of this plant to zone 3a, I can conf...Read Moreirm that I have had it growing in zone 3a Northern MN for 25 years and it never winter kills. We have also planted it in community beds where it survives with neglect.

A vigorous and healthy plant not prone to pests/disease with beautiful spires of purple flowers. Doesn't seem to spread out by itself, di...Read Morevide in very early spring to cover more of the garden. Very impressed with this plant, considering the poor, clay soil if my yard!

It's hard to understand why more people don't grow this plant today. I gather it was a more popular selection 50 years ago. While it's n...Read Moreot spectacular it is an attractive plant even when not in bloom. The flowers last a long time and will fit into many colour schemes without clashing and it seems to be very hardy. I'm growing mine on the west side of the barn against a white wall with a mix of dianthus, herbaceous potentillas, heliopsis and hollyhocks. I just wish I had bought a couple more plants when I found this one after several seasons of looking.

If you are looking for an upright plant for part shade, this it is. It has a long bloom time, which can be extended if deadheaded, and it...Read More stays in nice neat clumps. It does not lean toward the sun. While the flowers may not be spectacular, they will add color to that difficult spot.