Species Pussytoes
white-brown flowers with green-white foliage and  yellow-green stems

Pussytoes

Antennaria howellii subsp. neodioica

Also Known As - Small Pussytoes,Northern Pussytoes
Pussytoes (Antennaria howellii subsp. neodioica) are an evergreen perennial member of the Asteraceae family. Growing 10-30 cm in height, this low spreading perennial has fuzzy grey-green foliage and small, white flowers that appear in clusters in the spring. It is most commonly found in dry, sandy or rocky places such as beaches, roadsides and woodlands, and is native to North America. Its unique name comes from its soft, downy flower stalks reminiscent of cat paws. This species is hardy and frost-resistant, low-maintenance, and can be planted in a rock garden or in container boxes. It adds a delightful textural element to any home's outdoor décor.

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Seed Propagation,Cutting,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Flowers:

White/Cream Flowers

Sun:

Sun

Soil:

Clay, Sand

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,gray,gray

Growth Rate:

Low

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

watering

Pussytoes prefer well-drained soil and can tolerate sandy soils. Water the plant regularly during the first growing season, providing deep, occasional watering sessions so that the water can penetrate at least 6 inches deep into the soil. Water when the soil feels slightly dry to the touch, particularly during the warmer months. During the winter, cut back on watering, as the plant goes dormant and requires much less moisture. As a general rule of thumb, water the plant every 7-10 days during the growing season (spring and summer) and every 5-7 days during the fall.

sunlight

Pussytoes (Antennaria howellii subsp. neodioica) is a perennial species that thrives best in full sunlight. It requires between 6 and 8 hours of direct sunlight per day to remain healthy and blooming, with the best results obtained when plants are exposed to full sunlight for all 8 hours. In terms of timing, it is best to plant Pussytoes in an area where the sun will be most intense during the morning hours, and gradually reducing as the day progresses. This will ensure that the plant receives energy throughout the day and is best able to photosynthesize and develop strong roots.

pruning

Pussytoes (Antennaria howellii subsp. neodioica) should be pruned at least once a year, usually in late winter or early spring before the plant begins new growth. Start by cutting out any dead or dying branches or stems from the bush removing back to at least 1 or 2 joints from where the dead portion ends. This will help encourage strong growth when the new season begins. You can also remove any old or diseased leaves, or any shoots that are growing too close together. Prune to the desired shape and size and remove any branches or stems that are crossing over each other as they may be rubbing and susceptible to disease.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Pussytoes typically start flowering in April.