PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun exposure; tolerates partial shade in hot desert regions to prevent leaf scorch
Watering
Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; drought-tolerant once established
Temperature
Thrives in warm, arid conditions; avoid frost and temperatures below 10°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Silvery-gray, densely pubescent, oblong to spatulate leaves arranged in basal rosettes
- Flower: Small, greenish-yellow, clustered in terminal spikes; lack showy petals
- Stem: Erect, branching stems covered in fine, woolly hairs
Care Guide
Watering
Water deeply when top 5 cm of soil is dry
Fertilization
Diluted low-nitrogen feed once at planting. Over-fertilization can reduce the silvery appearance of foliage
Eggshell powder topdress：Sprinkle finely crushed eggshells around the base; avoid direct contact with stems to prevent fungal growthPruning
- Remove spent flower spikes to prevent unwanted self-seeding if desired
- Trim yellowing basal leaves to maintain a tidy rosette appearance
- Cut back dead stems after the flowering cycle ends to clear garden space
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; may cause vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, oral pain
Humans: Contains diterpene esters; ingestion causes mild oral and gastrointestinal irritation
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental foliage for xeriscaping; traditional medicinal use by Indigenous groups for skin conditions
