PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Requires full sun for abundant flowering; tolerates partial shade in hot climates but may produce fewer blooms
Watering
Water deeply when the top 5 cm of soil is dry; established plants are drought-tolerant and require minimal supplemental watering
Temperature
Hardy to -15°C; withstands hot summer temperatures up to 35°C without significant stress
Characteristics
- Leaf: Basal rosette of large, densely woolly silver-gray leaves; stem leaves are smaller, clasping the upright stem
- Flower: Dense, elongated spike of small, bright yellow five-petaled flowers
- Stem: Thick, unbranched, woolly green stem produced in the second growing season
Care Guide
Watering
Water regularly during active growth periods; reduce watering during extended dry spells to prevent root rot
Fertilization
Apply diluted compost tea once every 2 months if soil is very poor. No regular fertilization is needed for healthy growth in average soil
Composted banana peel tea：Compost banana peels for 2–3 weeks, steep in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 for root drench; avoid raw peels to prevent pest infestations and odorPruning
- Remove spent flower spikes after blooming to prevent unwanted self-seeding if desired
- Trim damaged or yellowing basal leaves in early spring to improve plant appearance and airflow
- Thin overcrowded first-year rosettes to reduce competition for water and nutrients
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no known toxic compounds
Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no reported adverse health effects from ingestion or contact
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Traditional medicinal herb for respiratory ailments; ornamental garden plant for vertical height and bright summer blooms
