Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates dry, exposed meadow or rock garden conditions
Watering
Water deeply but infrequently; highly drought-tolerant once fully established
Temperature
Hardy to -15°C; withstands hot, dry summer temperatures without supplemental cooling
Characteristics
- Leaf: Basal rosette of woolly, oblong leaves; stem leaves smaller, clasping
- Flower: Dense spikes of creamy-white, five-petaled flowers
- Stem: Erect, unbranched, covered in grayish-white downy hairs
Care Guide
Watering
Water occasionally during prolonged dry spells to support flower spike development
Fertilization
No regular fertilization needed; thrives in low-nutrient soil. Excess fertilizer may reduce flower production and increase foliage growth
Composted eggshell powder:Sprinkle a thin layer around the base of rosettes in early spring; avoid direct contact with foliage to prevent potential burningPruning
- Remove spent flower spikes after blooming to prevent unwanted self-seeding if desired
- Cut back dead foliage to ground level in late winter to clear space for new spring growth
- Thin overcrowded basal rosettes in early spring to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no reported toxic reactions
Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental wildflower; traditional medicinal uses for mild respiratory ailments
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