PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Thrives in full sun to partial shade; prefers bright, direct sunlight with consistent airflow to prevent fungal growth
Watering
Drought-tolerant; water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings to avoid root rot
Temperature
Hardy to -30°C; tolerates hot, dry summers; avoid prolonged wet soil conditions in cold winter months
Characteristics
- Leaf: Silvery-gray, lanceolate to oblong leaves covered in fine, dense hairs to reduce water loss
- Flower: Small, yellowish-green disk flowers in compact terminal panicles
- Stem: Erect, branching stems with silvery pubescence for drought resistance
Care Guide
Watering
Water deeply once per week during prolonged dry spells; avoid overwatering
Fertilization
Apply diluted, balanced organic feed once in early spring to support new growth. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to prevent leggy growth
Eggshell powder topdressing：Crush dried, rinsed eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on the soil surface once every 6 months to improve drainage and boost soil calcium levelsPruning
- Cut back spent flower stalks in late fall to encourage dense, compact growth in the following spring
- Thin overcrowded clumps in early spring to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
- Trim back leggy stems in mid-summer to maintain a neat, rounded form
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA notes mild toxicity; ingestion may lead to vomiting, diarrhea, or mild lethargy
Humans: Ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset, including nausea and abdominal cramping
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Used by some Indigenous North American tribes for medicinal purposes, including treating minor skin irritations and digestive complaints
Usage: Ornamental groundcover, drought-tolerant border plant, and occasional medicinal herb
