Howell's pussytoes
Antennaria howellii
Also known as: Howell's pussytoes, small pussytoes
- Native to:
- Canada, Prince Edward I., United States, Virgin Islands
Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz
Taxonomy
- Division:
- Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
- Family:
- Asteraceae
- Genus:
- Antennaria
- Species:
- Antennaria howellii
- USDA Symbol:
- ANHO
Growth Characteristics
- Life Cycle:
- Perennial
- Growth Habit:
- Forb/herb
- Height:
- 30 cm
- Light Requirements:
- Full Sun
- Drought Tolerance:
- Medium
- Bloom Months:
- apr,may,jun
- Bloom Colors:
- white
- Ground Cover:
- Yes
- Lawn Substitute:
- Yes
Wildlife Benefits
- Butterflies & Moths:
- ★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)
- Caterpillars:
- ★☆☆☆☆ Recorded caterpillar host plant (HOSTS Database)
Keystone Species Ranking
- Caterpillar Keystone:
- ★☆☆☆☆ Butterfly & moth species supported by this genus (NWF)
Host Plant for Caterpillars
Verna flower moth (Schinia verna)
Garden & Ecology Notes
- Wildlife Value:
- butterflies, small mammals
- Deer Resistant:
- Yes
Soil Requirements
- Soil Type:
- sandy, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil
- pH:
- 5.5 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Drainage:
- excellent drainage required
- Moisture:
- dry to moderate
- Notes:
- Common in open, rocky areas and grasslands
Propagation & Germination
- Stratification:
- None required
- Germination Time:
- 14–30 days
- Notes:
- Seeds germinate readily without pretreatment; surface sow on moist soil and keep at 20°C.
Pre-treatment: None required
Establishment: Seeds are collected when achenes are easily separated from receptacle. They are dark grey at maturity and are kept in a well ventilated drying shed prior to cleaning.
Source: npn.rngr.net