showy pussytoes

Antennaria pulcherrima

Also known as: handsome pussy-toes, showy pussytoes

Native to:
Canada, United States

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Asteraceae
Genus:
Antennaria
Species:
Antennaria pulcherrima
USDA Symbol:
ANPU

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Forb/herb
Height:
15 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
High
Bloom Months:
may,jun,jul
Bloom Colors:
white, pink
Ground Cover:
Yes

Wildlife Benefits

Butterflies & Moths:
★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)

Keystone Species Ranking

Caterpillar Keystone:
★☆☆☆☆ Butterfly & moth species supported by this genus (NWF)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
butterflies, small mammals
Deer Resistant:
Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
sandy, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil
pH:
5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
prefers open, sunny locations

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days
Germination Time:
14–30 days
Notes:
Seeds require light for germination; surface sow and do not cover. Erratic germination is common in Antennaria species.

The above propagation data sourced from Claude AI

Pre-treatment: Cold-moist stratification for 30 days at 1–5°C (34–41°F).

Source: Claude AI

ORGHPS Germination Guide: Sow @ 20C. Germinates within 3 months.

Source: Ontario Rock Garden & Hardy Plant Society