Woolly Groundsel

(Packera cana)

Woolly Groundsel (Packera cana)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Packera cana, commonly known as Woolly Groundsel, is a perennial herb that is native to the mountainous regions of western North America, particularly in alpine meadows, rocky slopes, and subalpine zones. It typically grows to about 16 inches (40 cm) in height and is characterized by its woolly, whitish hairs that cover the stems and lance-shaped basal leaves, which help to insulate the plant in its cold native habitats. The inflorescence is a corymb of several flower heads, each with golden yellow disc florets surrounded by 8 to 13 narrow yellow ray florets, blooming from late spring to early summer. The flowers are modest in size but can be quite showy when in large numbers. The fruit is an achene with a pappus of bristles, aiding in wind dispersal.

Woolly Groundsel is valued for its ability to thrive in challenging mountainous conditions and is often used in rock gardens, alpine collections, and native plant landscapes. It is appreciated for its low maintenance requirements, tolerance of poor soils, and resistance to pests and diseases. It requires well-drained soil, moderate water, and full sun to partial shade. While not commonly found in cultivation, it can be a unique addition to gardens that mimic its native alpine conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub, Herb
  • Height: 1.5-3 feet
  • Width: 1-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous, Semi-deciduous

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Native to alpine meadows, rocky slopes, and subalpine zones

Other Names

Common Names: Woolly Ragwort, Silvery Groundsel, Gray Ragwort

Scientific Names: , Packera cana, Packera cana f. cana, Packera cana f. eradiata, Senecio canus, Senecio canus var. acraeus, Senecio canus var. canus, Senecio canus var. celsus, Senecio canus var. eradiatus, Senecio canus var. purshianus

GBIF Accepted Name: