Stachys trial reveals several good specimens

Chicago Botanic Garden evaluated 22 taxa of Stachys (lamb's-ear) from 1998 to 2004. The majority of the plants trialed received a “good” rating.

The trial identified “outstanding Stachys through an assessment of their ornamental traits, disease and pest resistance, cultural adaptability and winter hardiness,” said Richard Hawke, the CBG’s plant evaluation manager.

The evaluation site received about 10 hours of full sun during the growing season and was exposed to wind in all directions. Maintenance practices were kept to a minimum, he said.

“In general, Stachys proved to be exceptional perennials for Northern gardens,” Hawke said. “The majority of taxa received four-star good ratings, with only one taxon receiving poor marks.”

S. monieri ‘Hummelo’ received the highest rating in the trial based on strong flower production, plant health, habit quality and winter hardiness. S. thirkei was rated poor.

Other high-ranking varieties include S. officinalis, S. byzantina and S. macrantha.

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For more: Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe, IL 60022; (847) 835-5440; www.chicagobotanic.org.