PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; thrives in open, unshaded meadow habitats
Watering
Water deeply but infrequently; drought-tolerant once established, avoid waterlogged soil
Temperature
Cold hardy to -10°C; tolerates cool mountain summers and mild, dry winters
Characteristics
- Leaf: Narrow, linear to lanceolate, gray-green, sparsely covered in fine silvery hairs
- Flower: Tiny greenish-yellow true flowers surrounded by showy, bright red to orange bracts
- Stem: Erect, branching stems with dense, silvery pubescence
Care Guide
Watering
Water regularly during active growth to support bloom development
Fertilization
Minimal, diluted low-nitrogen feed once every 2 months. Avoid synthetic fertilizers to preserve native plant health
Eggshell powder topdress：Crush clean, dried eggshells to fine powder, sprinkle lightly on soil surface; no dilution required to avoid nutrient burnPruning
- Deadhead spent blooms after flowering to encourage self-seeding
- Remove faded, brown foliage in late autumn to reduce fungal spore buildup
- Thin overcrowded clumps every 2–3 years in early spring to improve airflow
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: No listed toxicity to cats
Humans: No known toxicity to humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes wild beauty and ecological resilience in western North American native landscapes
Usage: Ornamental wildflower for pollinator gardens; supports native bees and hummingbirds
