PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Requires full sun for abundant flowering; tolerates light partial shade in extremely hot climates
Watering
Drought-tolerant once established; water deeply but infrequently to avoid root rot
Temperature
Hardy to extreme cold and summer heat; requires well-drained soil to survive winter moisture
Characteristics
- Leaf: Silvery-gray, finely dissected, aromatic leaves with a soft fuzzy texture
- Flower: Tiny tubular lavender-blue blooms arranged in dense, upright terminal spires
- Stem: Slender, woody, silvery stems that form compact, rounded clumps
Care Guide
Watering
Water newly planted specimens weekly; established plants only need water during prolonged droughts
Fertilization
Apply a light, balanced slow-release fertilizer once in early spring. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to prevent leggy, floppy growth
Eggshell powder top-dressing：Crush clean, dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly around the base in early spring to boost soil calcium levels without overfeedingPruning
- Cut back stems to 15–30 cm above ground in late winter or early spring to promote bushy, compact growth
- Deadhead spent flower spires to extend the blooming period into early autumn
- Thin overcrowded stems in mid-summer to improve airflow and reduce fungal disease risk
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA-verified non-toxic to cats; no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact
Humans: Non-toxic to humans; aromatic foliage may cause mild skin irritation in rare sensitive individuals
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental garden plant; aromatic foliage used in dried flower arrangements
