Stachys Hummelo, 2019 Perennial Plant of the Year

Save some space in your garden for the 2019 Perennial Plant of the Year, Stachys Hummelo.

Each year, the Perennial Plant Association members select an outstanding perennial that is readily available, suited to a wide range of climates, low maintenance, with good insect and disease resistance, and provides multiple seasons of interest.

Stachys Hummelo, a relative of lamb’s ear, is a slow spreading, clump-forming perennial. You and the pollinators will enjoy the upright spikes of bright-pinkish purple flowers from early through midsummer.

Hardy in zones 4 to 8, this compact plant grows 18 to 20 inches tall and 18 inches wide. Use Hummelo in the front of the garden or in containers. It combines nicely with ornamental grasses, purple coneflower and butterfly weed.

Grow it in well-drained soil and full to partial sun. Best of all, the deer and rabbits tend to leave it be.

A bit more information:  Remove the fading flowers to extend the bloom time. Prune back plants when flowering is complete to encourage more compact, tidier growth. And leave the sturdy stems standing for winter to add texture in the winter garden.