Stachys, commonly known as lamb’s ear, is indeed a deer resistant plant. This means that deer are less likely to feed on it compared to other plants in your garden. As someone who loves gardening, I have experienced firsthand the frustration of having my plants constantly nibbled on by deer. However, when I introduced stachys to my garden, I noticed that it remained untouched by these hungry visitors.
Deer tend to avoid plants with fuzzy or hairy leaves, such as stachys, as they find the texture unappealing. The soft, velvety leaves of lamb’s ear are not only visually pleasing but also act as a natural deterrent for deer. This makes stachys a great choice for those who live in areas with a high deer population.
In addition to its deer resistance, stachys also boasts beautiful blooms that attract a wide variety of pollinators. The flowers, which are typically pink or purple in color, are a favorite among bees and butterflies. This not only adds a vibrant splash of color to your garden but also helps support the local ecosystem by providing food for these important pollinators.
Furthermore, the blooms of stachys make excellent cut flowers. Their unique texture and color make them a popular choice for floral arrangements. I often find myself cutting a few stems of lamb’s ear and adding them to bouquets, as they add a touch of elegance and interest.
When it comes to pairing stachys with other plants in your garden, it goes well with a variety of companions. Its soft, silvery foliage pairs beautifully with yellow and red coreopsis, creating a striking contrast. Additionally, stachys complements the deep blue hues of salvias, adding depth and texture to the overall arrangement. One combination that I particularly enjoy is pairing stachys with Fountain grass. The feathery plumes of the grass provide a lovely backdrop for the velvety leaves of lamb’s ear.
Stachys, or lamb’s ear, is not only deer resistant but also a great addition to any garden. Its fuzzy leaves act as a deterrent for deer, while its attractive blooms attract pollinators and make excellent cut flowers. Whether you’re looking to create a deer-resistant garden or simply want to add a touch of beauty and texture to your landscape, stachys is a fantastic choice.
