Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; thrives in exposed, dry meadow conditions
Watering
Drought-tolerant; water only during prolonged dry spells to avoid root rot
Temperature
Hardy to mild frost; prefers cool to warm temperate growing conditions
Characteristics
- Leaf: Narrow linear leaves covered in dense white woolly hairs, arranged alternately along slender stems
- Flower: Tiny clustered yellowish-white florets forming compact pyramidal inflorescences
- Stem: Slender branching stems with woolly pubescence to reduce moisture loss
Care Guide
Watering
Water sparingly during extended dry periods; allow soil to dry completely between waterings
Fertilization
No fertilization required; adapted to low-fertility habitats. Fertilizer may disrupt natural growth habit and reduce self-seeding success
Crushed eggshell powder:Sprinkle a thin layer around plant bases in early spring to enhance drainage; avoid overapplication to preserve low-fertility conditionsPruning
- Deadhead spent blooms to encourage natural self-seeding in wildflower meadows
- Remove faded foliage after flowering to maintain meadow tidiness
- Avoid heavy pruning, as the short-lived annual has minimal maintenance needs
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: No known toxicity to cats
Humans: No known toxic effects on humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Wildflower meadow restoration, pollinator support for small bees
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