Low Pussytoes

(Antennaria dimorpha)

Low Pussytoes (Antennaria dimorpha)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Antennaria dimorpha, commonly known as low pussytoes or gray cushion pussytoes, is a mat-forming perennial herb native to the arid regions of western North America, including western Canada and the western United States. It thrives in dry, open habitats such as scablands, sagebrush deserts, and the openings of ponderosa pine forests. Low pussytoes typically form dense mats with spoon-shaped leaves that are coated with long, gray hairs, giving the plant a soft, woolly appearance. The plant reaches only a few centimeters in height and produces erect inflorescences, each with a single flower head. The flower heads are notable for their dark brown and green patched phyllaries. It is dioecious, meaning male and female flowers are found on separate plants, with the male flowers being more showy than the female ones.

Low pussytoes are valued for their drought tolerance and ability to form ground covers in rock gardens, xeriscapes, and naturalized areas. They require minimal maintenance once established and are excellent for erosion control on slopes. In cultivation, they prefer full sun to part shade and well-drained soils. They are rarely affected by diseases or pests, making them a resilient choice for gardeners. However, they do not tolerate wet or poorly drained soils well.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub, Herb
  • Height: 0.1-0.3 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: Purple
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Low
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Low Maintenance, Rock Garden

Natural Habitat

Arid regions of western North America, including scablands, sagebrush deserts, and ponderosa pine forest openings

Other Names

Common Names: Low Pussytoes, Low Everlasting, Cushion Pussytoes, Two-Form Pussytoes

Scientific Names: , Antennaria dimorpha, Antennaria dimorpha subsp. latisquama, Antennaria dimorpha var. dimorpha, Antennaria dimorpha var. integra, Antennaria dimorpha var. latisquama, Antennaria dimorpha var. macrocephala, Antennaria dimorpha var. nuttallii, Antennaria latisquama, Antennaria macrocephala

GBIF Accepted Name: