Lamiastrum galeobdolon ‘Herman’s Pride’

Herman's Pride

As we select and install any sort of plant material, we have the expectation of beautiful flowers, perhaps interesting foliage, texture, scent, wildlife value, etc. The expectation of durability and longevity is also valid and I’ve met few perennials that are as tough and long-lived as the silver archangel (Lamiastrum galeobdolon ‘Herman’s Pride’). While that Latin name is a mouthful, I want to clarify succinctly that the selection of ‘Herman’s Pride’ (also sold as ‘Hermann’s Pride’) is a mounding, clumping form as opposed to the creeping, thuggish, stoloniferous groundcover form of Lamiastrum galebodolon ‘Variegatum’. This distinction in form between “mounding restraint” and “wild abandon,” despite similar ornamental characteristics, is very important.

Silver archangel (mint family) is rugged, hardy and displays ornamental, silvery foliage contributed by slender, pointed sharply-toothed foliage where the showy, silver patina is highlighted with a webbing of dark green veins. Reaching roughly 12 inches tall and 18 inches wide in time, this clumping perennial (species is native to Europe and Western Asia) will tolerate full sun (given ample moisture), part sun and even significant shade. I’ve found that it seems to really thrive in a part sun situation and while drought tolerant, moist, but well-drained soils are ideal. The silver foliage really brightens up shadier gardens. This garden stalwart is tolerant of a wide range of soils including poor, dry soils and even clay.

Low maintenance perennial

The silver foliage offers a real “pop” of interest in groupings or solitary specimens, but the late spring flowers are noteworthy. Appearing densely on short whorls, the flowers are a bright, butter-yellow and contribute 2-3 weeks of interest. While the flowering period is beautiful, the months-long contribution of bright, metallic foliage and crisp mounded form is what endears this perennial to me. Both deer and rabbit resistant, this species also has very few insect or disease issues. If I were to list my favorite low maintenance perennials, ‘Herman’s Pride’ would/will always make that list.