Lamb's Ear
phlomis lychnitis
Also known as: ["Lamb's Ear","Lamb's Ear Sage","Lamb's Ear Phlomis"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to the Mediterranean region, known for its woolly, silver-gray leaves and yellow flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Phlomis |
| Botanical Name: | Phlomis lychnitis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border plantings or rock gardens in temperate climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, gritty soil with added organic matter; suitable for Mediterranean climates.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; place outdoors in summer for optimal light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Use a cactus or succulent mix as a base; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with gravel for extra drainage.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm, dry conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly; apply to moist soil; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–6 weeks; establish in new pot within 3–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back stems to just above a healthy bud or leaf node; thin out crowded areas.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or weak stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune at the right time; make clean cuts; dispose of pruned material.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Allow soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress); wilting or leaf drop (heat stress); stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration; vulnerable to root damage in prolonged cold or wet conditions.
Solution: Move to a sheltered location; provide frost protection; ensure well-draining soil to prevent cold waterlogging.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch or curl; growth may slow; increased water demand to prevent wilting.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid contact with roots.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; reduce or stop feeding in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest Phlomis lychnitis. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause mild symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Phlomis lychnitis may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicPhlomis lychnitis contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can lead to discomfort in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Phlomis lychnitis toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should Phlomis lychnitis be watered?
A: It is drought-tolerant and requires watering only when the soil is dry.
Q: Does Phlomis lychnitis attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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