When the flower stalks fall over, they root along the ground - messy in appearance but a quick method of propagation.

i was told.. in general.. that by the time it flowers its spent most of the requisite energy ...

it was not a discussion about seeds ... and that usually goes without saying ... i usually dont allow plants to go to seed until late summer anyway.. if that is the plan ... look up how long it takes seed to ripen.. and count back from usual dormancy date ... yeah.. and sometimes that doesnt work out if its a one bloom cycle per season bloomer ... but it is a perennial ... so there is always alternatives.. to seed ... like dividing the plant next spring ...

but.. as you note.. if they already look like they are over it.. whats for you to be worrying about .???

ken

Good point, Ken. I am looking forward to them filling in and feeling impatient. I actually enjoy the lamb’s ear flowers, so they will stay, especially since that will help them spread faster. Thanks, all!

Back in the days when I grew lamb's ear, I grew it for the foliage effect. IMO, the flowers - its least appealing feature - detracted from that so I cut them off as soon as any flower buds appeared. Didn't slow the growth or spread of the plant at all.

I agree the flowers are messy, especially after a while, but the bees absolutely love them, so I leave them for a bit before ruthlessly tearing them out- because lambs ears have always been very vigorous and spreading for me.

i do the same as gardengal. I think the flowers are ugly.

But lisantii makes a good point - let them serve the pollinators first before lopping their heads!