Small-Leaf Pussytoes

(Antennaria parvifolia)

Small-Leaf Pussytoes (Antennaria parvifolia)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Antennaria parvifolia, commonly known as Small-Leaf Pussytoes, is an evergreen perennial herb native to a variety of habitats including open woodlands, meadows, and rocky slopes in the Central and Western United States, Canada, and Northwest Mexico. It is a low-growing plant, typically reaching only a few centimeters high, but it can grow up to 15 centimeters. The leaves are distinctively grayish and woolly-haired, with basal leaves up to 3.5 centimeters long and the upper ones being shorter and narrower. Small-Leaf Pussytoes produce an inflorescence of 2 to 7 flower heads, each lined with phyllaries that vary in color from white to red, green, or brown. The plant is adept at forming dense mats through its spreading stolons and sprouting new stems, which makes it an excellent ground cover.

This species is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor soils, making it a suitable choice for rock gardens, xeriscaping, and restoration projects. Its flowers are modest but can add texture and interest to garden settings. Small-Leaf Pussytoes is also appreciated for its wildlife value, as it serves as a larval host for the American Painted Lady butterfly. Cultivation requirements include full sun to partial shade, and it is adaptable to a range of soil types, provided they have slow to medium drainage. While generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to root rot in overly moist conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.3-0.5 feet
  • Width: 0.5-0.7 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Cream
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium, High
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Fire Resistant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden, Salt Tolerant, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Open woodlands, meadows, and rocky slopes

Other Names

Common Names: Nuttall’s Pussytoes, Little-Leaved Pussytoes, Low Pussytoes, Small-Leaved Pussytoes, Rocky Mountain Pussytoes, Little-Leaf Pussytoes, Small Leaf Pussytoes, Smalleaf Pussytoes, Antennaire À Petites Feuilles, Nutt.’s Pussytoes, Smallleaf Pussytoes

Scientific Names: , Antennaria parvifolia, Antennaria aprica, Antennaria rhodantha, Antennaria latisquamea, Antennaria aureola, Antennaria aprica f. brunnea, Antennaria aprica f. roseoides, Antennaria aureola var. roseata, Antennaria obtusata

GBIF Accepted Name: Antennaria parvifolia Nutt.