Pussytoes
Antennaria plantaginifolia
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
8 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Low
Humidity
Low to moderate
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Eastern and Central North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Antennaria plantaginifolia, commonly known as pussytoes, is a low-growing, perennial herb with fuzzy, gray-green foliage and clusters of tiny, white, woolly flowers that resemble little cats' paws. This species is valued for its drought tolerance and silvery foliage, making it an excellent ground cover for xeriscapes and rock gardens.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-drained soil in early spring.
- Water lightly until established, about 2 weeks.
- Place in full sun for best flowering.
- Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Divide every 3-4 years in early spring for renewal.
- Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring.
Pro Tip
Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water during dry spells ☀️
- Deadhead to encourage more blooms 🌸
- Apply compost annually for nutrients
Don't
- Overwater, especially in winter ❌
- Use heavy mulch that retains moisture ❌
- Allow soil to become waterlogged ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Pussytoes questions
What zones can Pussytoes grow in?
Pussytoes is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Pussytoes deer resistant?
Yes — Pussytoes is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Pussytoes bloom?
Pussytoes typically blooms in spring through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Pussytoes need full sun?
Pussytoes does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Pussytoes drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Pussytoes handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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Grow Pussytoes with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
