STACHYS - Lambs Ear - summer sweets (PBR)

Stachys officinalis 'Summer Sweets'

A Stunning New Star for Your Garden!

Stachys officinalis 'Summer Sweets' is a show-stopping addition to any garden, blending traditional charm with contemporary flair. Though related to the familiar Lamb’s Ear, this stunning betony variety stands out with its vibrant character and unique appeal. Traditionally grown for its medicinal qualities, betony has recently undergone extensive breeding to create exceptional ornamental varieties—and 'Summer Sweets' is truly one of the best!

This compact, upright perennial features lush, mid-green foliage that forms a tidy clump, but the real star of the show is its delicate, pale rose-pink flowers. Blooming profusely from June through September, the densely packed flower spikes add a soft elegance to borders, cottage gardens, and patio pots. Loved by bees and other pollinators, 'Summer Sweets' is an excellent choice for eco-friendly gardeners. Its long-lasting blooms are equally delightful in the garden or arranged in a vase for fresh, indoor beauty.

Why Grow Stachys officinalis 'Summer Sweets'?

• Eye-catching Blooms: Pale rose-pink flower clusters bloom over an extended season, from early summer to early autumn.
• Compact and Upright Growth: Ideal for borders, patio containers, or as a filler in mixed plantings.
• Pollinator-Friendly: Attracts bees and supports a healthy garden ecosystem.
• Versatile Usage: Perfect for cutting and creating charming floral arrangements.
• Hardy and Easy to Grow: Thrives with minimal care, making it a great choice for gardeners of all levels.

Plant Care Instructions

Light Requirements:
Prefers full sun to partial shade. A sheltered position will yield the best results.

Soil:
Grows well in well-drained, dry to moderately moist soil. Suitable for sandy or loamy soil types, as well as multipurpose or loam-based compost.

Watering:
Water moderately during the growing season, but avoid overwatering—this plant thrives in free-draining conditions.

Pruning:
Cut back stems to ground level between late February and late March to encourage fresh growth in spring.

Planting Advice:

• Space plants 20 cm apart (around 5 per m²) for optimal growth.
• Takes 1–2 years to fully establish in the garden.

Winter Care:
As a deciduous perennial, 'Summer Sweets' will die back in autumn. Ensure good drainage over winter to protect the roots.

Plant Details

• Botanical Name: Stachys officinalis 'Summer Sweets'
• Flower Colour: Pale rose-pink
• Foliage Colour: Mid-green
• Mature Height: 30–50 cm
• Mature Spread: 30–50 cm
• Habit: Upright, clump-forming
• Hardiness: Fully hardy (USDA Zones 4–9)
• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Acidity: Neutral to any pH
• Soil Moisture: Free-draining or dry
• Life Cycle: Perennial
• Scented: No
• Pollinator-Friendly: Yes

Where to Use Stachys 'Summer Sweets'

• Perfect for borders, cottage gardens, and low-maintenance gardens.
• Thrives in both patio pots and open garden spaces.
• Great for cutting to create charming indoor floral displays.

Add Stachys officinalis 'Summer Sweets' to your garden for a delightful burst of summer colour and elegance. Its easy care and vibrant blooms make it a standout choice for gardeners of all skill levels!