PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; thrives in open meadow or rocky alpine slopes
Watering
Water moderately during active growth; tolerate brief dry periods once established
Temperature
Hardy to -15°C; prefers cool temperate conditions; avoid prolonged extreme heat above 28°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Narrow linear gray-green leaves, 1–4 cm long, with fine sparse hairs
- Flower: Inconspicuous yellow-green tiny flowers surrounded by bright pink to red showy bracts
- Stem: Slender erect stems covered in soft pubescence
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged during active growth
Fertilization
Minimal to no fertilization; low soil fertility supports natural growth. Do not use high-nitrogen fertilizers as they can disrupt hemiparasitic nutrient uptake
Diluted banana peel tea：Use only once every 2 months; dilute 1:40 with water to avoid over-fertilization; apply directly to soil around basePruning
- Deadhead spent blooms to encourage extended flowering period
- Trim back faded foliage in late autumn to tidy clumps and prepare for winter dormancy
- Remove any diseased or damaged stems promptly to prevent spread of fungal pathogens
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no adverse effects reported
Humans: No documented toxicity to humans per ASPCA and botanical records
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Native wildflower for pollinator gardens; supports bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds
