Pussytoes (Antennaria plantaginifolia) are charming North American native perennials known for their unique, fuzzy flower clusters resembling tiny cat's paws, hence their name. These low-growing plants produce dense mats of narrow, silvery leaves that complement the clusters of small, white to pinkish flowers in late spring to early summer. Pussytoes thrive in dry to medium moisture, well-drained soils, making them ideal for rock gardens, borders, and naturalized areas. They prefer full sun to part shade and are relatively low maintenance once established. Their ability to attract pollinators like butterflies and bees adds to their appeal in wildlife-friendly gardens.
Ships as a Landscape-Ready Plug 6 Plant Minimum
Pussytoes (Antennaria plantaginifolia) info from Missouri Botanical Garden
Common Name: Pussytoes
Type: Herbaceous perennial
Family: Asteraceae
Zone: 3 to 8
Height: 6 to 12 inches
Spread: 12 to 18 inches
Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer
Bloom Description: White to pinkish
Sun: Full sun to part shade
Water: Dry to medium
Maintenance: Low
Flower: Showy
Attracts: Butterflies, Bees
Tolerate: Drought, Dry Soil, Shallow-Rocky Soil
Pussytoes (Antennaria plantaginifolia)
Ornamental Features
Antennaria plantaginifolia, commonly known as Plantain-leaved Pussytoes, is a North American native perennial valued for its unique appearance and adaptability. This herbaceous plant forms dense mats of narrow, silvery-green leaves that resemble those of the plantain herb. From late spring to early summer, it produces clusters of small, fluffy flowers that range in color from white to pinkish. These flowers, though subtle individually, create a charming display as they cover the plant. Antennaria plantaginifolia thrives in dry to medium moisture, well-drained soils and prefers full sun to part shade. It is particularly well-suited for rock gardens, slopes, and dry, sandy areas where its low-growing, spreading habit can fill in spaces beautifully. This plant is also deer resistant and attracts butterflies, making it a lovely addition to pollinator gardens.
Planting and Growing
Antennaria plantaginifolia, commonly known as Plantain-leaved Pussytoes, is a North American native perennial valued for its unique appearance and adaptability. This herbaceous plant forms dense mats of narrow, silvery-green leaves resembling those of the plantain herb. It typically grows to a height of 4 to 8 inches (10 to 20 cm) with a spread of 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 cm). From late spring to early summer, Antennaria plantaginifolia produces small clusters of fuzzy, white to pinkish flowers atop short stems. These flowers are subtle individually but create a charming effect en masse. Plantain-leaved Pussytoes thrive in dry to medium moisture, well-drained soils, and prefer full sun to part shade. They are well-suited for rock gardens, slopes, and dry, sandy areas where their low-growing, spreading habit fills in spaces beautifully. This plant is relatively low-maintenance once established and attracts pollinators like butterflies. It can be propagated by division or seeds and benefits from occasional pruning to rejuvenate growth.