Gamochaeta purpurea, commonly known as purple cudweed or spoonleaf purple everlasting, is a small annual herb native to a variety of habitats including open woodlands, grasslands, and disturbed areas throughout North America. It typically grows to a height of 4-12 inches (10-30 cm) and is characterized by its lanceolate, woolly leaves and small, peg-shaped purple flowerheads that appear in terminal clusters. The flowering season extends from late spring to early fall, and while the flowers are not particularly showy, they do add a subtle charm to the plant’s overall appearance.

Purple cudweed is valued for its low maintenance and adaptability to a range of soil types, from sandy to loamy, and it can tolerate both dry and moist conditions. It thrives in full sun to part shade and is often used in wildflower meadows, naturalized areas, or as a filler in garden borders due to its ability to self-seed and fill in spaces. However, it is important to be cautious with its cultivation outside its native range, as it can become invasive and outcompete native flora. In some regions, it is considered a weed and may require management to prevent unwanted spread.CC BY-SA 4.0