Woolly Stemodia
Stemodia tomentosa
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
9 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
8, 9
Water
Low
Humidity
Low to Moderate
Lifespan
Tender Perennial
Native To
Texas, Mexico
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Woolly stemodia is a low-growing, mat-forming, herbaceous perennial, often grown as an annual. It is characterized by its soft, fuzzy, silver-gray foliage and small, tubular, violet-purple flowers that bloom from spring to fall. This species is valued for its soft, velvety foliage and its ability to tolerate drought and poor soils, making it a resilient choice for xeriscaping.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in spring
- Water lightly until germination, about 2 weeks
- Place in full sun for best flowering
- Allow soil to dry between watering to prevent root rot
- Thin seedlings to promote airflow
- Mulch lightly to retain moisture
Pro Tip
Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water sparingly once established 💧
- Prune lightly after flowering to shape
- Fertilize with a balanced, organic fertilizer once in spring
Don't
- Overwater or keep soil wet ❌
- Use heavy, clay soil without amendments ❌
- Allow plants to sit in stagnant water ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
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
Woolly Stemodia questions
What zones can Woolly Stemodia grow in?
Woolly Stemodia is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Woolly Stemodia deer resistant?
Yes — Woolly Stemodia is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Woolly Stemodia bloom?
Woolly Stemodia typically blooms in late spring to fall through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Woolly Stemodia need full sun?
Woolly Stemodia does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Woolly Stemodia drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Woolly Stemodia handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
Keep exploring
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Grow Woolly Stemodia 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.
