PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates intense alpine sunlight and mild shade in hot climates
Watering
Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; highly drought-tolerant once established
Temperature
Hardy to -15°C; prefers cool to temperate conditions, avoid prolonged heat above 28°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Small, oblong to lanceolate leaves covered in dense silver-gray trichomes to reduce water loss
- Flower: Tubular yellow flowers clustered in tight whorls at stem apices
- Stem: Erect to ascending, woolly-textured, branching near the base for a compact mat form
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil slightly moist during active growth; avoid waterlogging
Fertilization
Diluted organic feed once every 6 weeks. Use low-nitrogen feed to promote compact, drought-resistant growth
Eggshell powder topdress：Sprinkle finely crushed, dried eggshells around the base to improve soil drainage and add calcium; avoid direct contact with foliage to prevent fungal growthPruning
- Deadhead spent flower clusters to encourage prolonged blooming through late summer
- Trim back leggy stems in early spring to maintain a compact mat form
- Remove damaged or yellowing foliage to improve airflow and reduce pest risk
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: No listed toxic effects for cats
Humans: No known toxic effects for humans; traditionally used in herbal teas
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental groundcover for dry gardens; traditional herbal tea for mild soothing properties
