PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; thrives in open meadow conditions and tolerates dry, exposed sites
Watering
Water deeply when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; drought-tolerant once established, avoid overwatering
Temperature
Hardy to -10°C; tolerates hot summer temperatures up to 30°C with adequate drainage
Characteristics
- Leaf: Silvery-gray woolly oblong to lanceolate leaves with slightly toothed margins
- Flower: Clusters of bright yellow daisy-like composite flowers (1–2 cm diameter)
- Stem: Erect, woolly stems branching near the top of the plant
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist during active growth periods; avoid waterlogging
Fertilization
Apply a diluted balanced fertilizer once at the start of growth. Over-fertilization can reduce flower production and increase susceptibility to disease
Banana peel tea：Soak 2–3 chopped banana peels in 1 liter of water for 3 days; dilute 1:2 with water before applying to soil to avoid nutrient burnPruning
- Deadhead spent flower heads regularly to extend the blooming season
- Cut back stems to ground level after flowering to promote tidy, dense growth the following year
- Remove any diseased or damaged foliage in early spring to reduce disease spread
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA-aligned: Contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids; ingestion may cause liver damage, vomiting, and diarrhea
Humans: Ingestion of large amounts causes mild gastrointestinal upset including nausea and abdominal pain
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental wildflower for pollinator gardens; avoid planting in areas accessible to livestock due to toxicity
