PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial sun; tolerates dry, exposed garden conditions and light shade in hot climates
Watering
Water deeply but infrequently; drought-tolerant once established, avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
Temperature
Hardy to -10°C; tolerates hot, dry summer temperatures up to 35°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Basal rosette of large, silvery-gray, softly hairy leaves with wavy margins; stem leaves are smaller and clasping
- Flower: Dense spikes of pale yellow, five-petaled flowers; each bloom opens for one day
- Stem: Tall, erect, woolly flowering stalk emerging in the second growing season
Care Guide
Watering
Water occasionally during extended dry spells; allow soil to dry completely between waterings
Fertilization
Light topdressing with compost once at the start of growth. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to prevent leggy growth
Eggshell powder topdressing：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly around the base in early spring to boost calcium levels without burning rootsPruning
- Deadhead spent flower spikes to prevent unwanted self-seeding if desired
- Remove damaged or yellowing basal leaves in early spring to improve airflow
- Cut back flowering stalks to ground level after bloom to tidy the plant
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 health effects from ingestion or contact
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental garden plant; traditional medicinal uses for leaf infusions to soothe respiratory irritation
