Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun exposure preferred; tolerates partial sun in excessively hot, arid regions
Watering
Drought-tolerant; water only when the top 2–3 cm of soil is completely dry to avoid root rot
Temperature
Thrives in cool to warm temperate conditions; tolerates light frost down to 5°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Narrow linear leaves covered in dense white woolly hairs, arranged in basal rosettes and alternate on upright stems
- Flower: Tiny clustered capitula with creamy-white to pale yellow florets, surrounded by woolly, silver-toned bracts
- Stem: Slender, branching stems with dense woolly pubescence to reduce water loss
Care Guide
Watering
Water sparingly during active growth; allow soil to dry between waterings
Fertilization
No regular fertilization required. Low-fertility soil supports natural growth; avoid nutrient-rich amendments which may cause leggy growth
Crushed eggshell powder topdressing:Sprinkle a thin layer of finely crushed eggshells on the soil surface; no dilution needed to avoid nutrient burnPruning
- Remove spent flower heads after blooming to prevent unwanted self-seeding if desired
- Thin overcrowded seedlings in early spring to improve airflow and reduce competition
- Clear dead foliage in late autumn to minimize overwintering pest habitat
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: No known toxic effects to cats
Humans: No known toxic effects to humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Wildflower meadow restoration, ornamental ground cover for dry rock gardens
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