I find that if I snip out about 2/3 of the flower stalks, I end up with a fuller plant and still plenty of bloom. I also cut old flowered stalks back to ground level as soon as they look ratty.
If you like Lamb's Ears this one's a great variety. The larger leaves and more upright habit not only create a beautiful clump but the older leaves are held higher and have less of a tendency to die. Gravel or rock mulch around the plant also help reduce rot. Like all S. byzantina varieties avoid wetting leaves on hottest of summer days. Multiplied from 3 crowns to a dozen or so in it's first year and very low maintenance.
I also ended up growing this in full sun. For me, it struggled much of the summer and did not grow extensively. As we've gone to fall, it's perked up a little and has rewarded some patience with some fresh blooms. I probably will move it to someplace out of the direct sun next year.
This plant does not often flower and reseed. It is not a rampant grower and does not get out of control in our location.
Tubers are edible. Can be eaten raw, cooked or pickled. Raw tubers remind me of a mild radish.
Stachys coccinea 'Mountain Red'....
